Karim Benzema leaves Al-Hilal and remains in the game

Karim Benzema has decided to leave Al-Hilal following weeks of tension with Simone Inzaghi. The French striker, who has long been a leader for the national team, has definitively ruled out retirement and is now exploring new professional opportunities. Several potential career paths are already under consideration, according to reports from AS.

 

A departure confirmed after repeated tensions

Relations between Benzema and his Al-Hilal coach, Simone Inzaghi, have significantly deteriorated in recent weeks. The French forward, accustomed to a central role in the dressing room, was unable to tolerate the Italian coach’s methods. Despite an ongoing contract, he chose to end his Saudi adventure and relaunch his career elsewhere. This break marks a turning point in the career of the former 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, who joined the Saudi league in June 2023 after leaving Real Madrid. Now 36, Benzema intends to prove he still has a role to play at the highest level.

Several options available to him

Without delay, the French striker has already received offers for next season. European clubs are closely monitoring his profile, despite his age. Contacts are said to have been made with Ligue 1, Premier League, and La Liga teams, where his experience could be an asset. Benzema has also mentioned the possibility of joining an ambitious project in MLS or Asia, where his status as an international star could attract investors. An American move had already been discussed months ago, but nothing is confirmed yet. His agent is actively working to finalize an agreement in the coming weeks. One thing is certain: Benzema is not ready to stop. The four-time Ballon d’Or winner still has ambitions to fulfill, and a return to the French national team, if the opportunity arises, is not ruled out.

And what about France?

France national team manager Didier Deschamps has not hidden his interest in a potential Benzema return. The striker, absent for over two years, could bring invaluable experience to a team in transition. For now, however, Benzema is focusing on his club career, where he aims to shine once again. Whatever destination he chooses, one thing is clear: Benzema does not want to hang up his boots. His departure from Al-Hilal is merely a step toward a new adventure, and clubs worldwide are vying to sign him.