Karim Benzema reveals key factor in ditching Real Madrid for Al Ittihad

Karim Benzema revealed that the chance to reside in a Muslim nation was a crucial factor in his decision to transfer to Saudi Arabia.Information Guide Nigeria

The football community was taken aback by the 35-year-old’s announcement to depart from Real Madrid upon the expiration of his contract. The Frenchman’s decision came as a surprise to many, who had anticipated an extension of his tenure at the Santiago Bernabeu for at least another year.

Following a meeting with Real Madrid’s esteemed president Florentino Perez, Karim Benzema has made the decision to embark on a new journey in his career by accepting the offer to transfer to Saudi Arabia. The talented striker has officially signed a three-year contract with reigning champions Al Ittihad on Tuesday.

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The signing of Benzema has the potential to trigger a significant departure of talent from Europe’s elite football leagues to Saudi Arabia, with several other notable players having been presented with highly attractive proposals. According to sources, Al Ittihad and Al Nassr are on the verge of securing the signings of N’Golo Kante and Wilfried Zaha respectively. Additionally, it has been reported that representatives of Neymar have engaged in discussions regarding a potential transfer to the Middle East.JAMB Result

In a grand unveiling ceremony on Thursday, Al Ittihad announced the signing of none other than Benzema as their star player. The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner revealed that his faith had a significant influence on his decision to join the team.

“Well, because I’m muslim and this is a muslim country, and I have always wanted to live here,” Benzema told the club’s media channels.

“I’m so ready to show my talent in this new challenge, there are so many big names play here in this league – Cristiano Ronaldo and now me,” he continued.

“So, it’s very important to show that Saudi football can have a global impact, because it’s not only about playing well here, I should bring the success I managed to achieve in Europe and play the same way I used to do with Real Madrid.

“[Ronaldo] is my friend and he is here. It’s amazing to see him here in Saudi Arabia, also he represents the new era of football in this country and the progress that’s happening here, which is important on the international level.”NYSC Portal

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