In a surprising move that could reshape the power dynamics in the Saudi Professional League, renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that French star Karim Benzema, the Ballon d'Or winner, has finalized his transfer from Al-Ittihad to their arch-rivals, Al-Hilal. Romano indicated via his official X platform account that all financial and contractual terms of the deal have been definitively agreed upon, thus bringing an end to Benzema's brief stint with the Saudi club.
Background and context of the deal in the Saudi League
This sensational transfer comes after just one season in Jeddah, where Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2013 from Real Madrid in a deal that made headlines worldwide. His arrival was part of a massive project by the Saudi Public Investment Fund aimed at raising the league's standards and attracting top international football stars, a project that also saw Cristiano Ronaldo join Al-Nassr and Neymar join Al-Hilal. Benzema's move between two major clubs within the same league represents a new and exciting development, reflecting the intense competition and high ambitions of Saudi clubs, not only at the continental level but also domestically.
The importance of the deal and its expected impact
This deal is expected to have a significant impact on several levels. Domestically, Al-Ittihad will lose one of its most potent attacking weapons, while Al-Hilal will gain a significant boost to its already formidable attack, which boasts stars like Aleksandar Mitrovic and Malcom. This transfer will intensify the "Saudi Clasico" between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, adding a new dimension to the competition for the league title. Regionally and internationally, the transfer of a player of Benzema's caliber between two Saudi clubs underscores the league's immense financial strength and its ability to retain its top stars, even rotating them among its clubs, thus cementing its status as a prime destination for the world's best players.
An ambitious project for the leader of Asia
According to Romano, this move comes at the direct request of the team's manager, Simone Inzaghi, who asked the administration to bolster the center-forward position with a world-class star. Al-Hilal, known as the "Leader of Asia" and record holder for AFC Champions League titles, aims to maintain its domestic and continental dominance. Adding Benzema will give the team broader tactical options and greater squad depth, especially given the club's ambitions to compete strongly in all competitions, including the new format of the FIFA Club World Cup.
