Ballon D’or winner Karim Benzema has signed for Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad after leaving Real Madrid.
The highly decorated French international won five Champions League titles and four La Liga trophies in his 14 years in Madrid.
He will now face off against former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo after signing for the Portuguese star’s Al Nassr’s Saudi rivals.
Benzema joins Al Ittihad
Benzema said: “It’s a good league and there are many good players. Cristiano Ronaldo is already there, a friend, which shows Saudi Arabia is starting to further progress its level. I am here to win, like I did in Europe.
“I have been fortunate to achieve amazing things in my career and achieve everything I can in Spain and Europe. It now feels the time is right for a new challenge and project.”
Joining Saudi champions Al Ittihad under sovereign wealth fund management are Al Ahli, Al Nassr and Al Hilal.
As well as new recruit Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo a host of top talent from European leagues, including Lionel Messi, N’Golo Kante and Robert Lewandowski have been linked with a move to the ambitious and deep-pocketed league.
Ittihad confirmed the signing of Benzema in a social media post, welcoming “a new tiger” to the club.
Ahead of that announcement the Frenchman said goodbye to Madrid fans with a message of his own.
Taking to Twitter he said: “Madridistas, After so many years here, the time has come to say goodbye to the club that has become my home, Real Madrid. I have had the privilege of wearing this legendary jersey and of representing this emblematic club.
“Thank you all for the love and support you have given me and provided throughout these years. I say goodbye with a deep feeling of gratitude and an emotional farewell. Go Madrid!”
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