“It’s a Muslim Country” – After Following Al Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo’s Footsteps, Karim Benzema Details Reasons Behind Saudi Arabia Move

The amount of talent in the Saudi Pro League is insane. Since Al-Nassr signed Cristiano Ronaldo in 2022, the league has transformed. Veterans, players in their prime, and even youngsters now favor a move across the Middle East. The SPL now has some of the best talents in the world. One such Superstar is Karim Benzema. The French international left Real Madrid after spending 14 years at the club and now has become an integral part of Saudi giants Al-Ittihad’s squad. In a recent interview, The superstar revealed why he moved to Saudi Arabia. 

After being the superstar at Spanish giants, Real Madrid, the world was shocked when Benzema decided to leave the Los Blancos. But last season’s Ballon d’Or winner has unveiled his motive to join Al-Ittihad and, more importantly, Saudi Arabia.

Karim Benzema reveals why he decided to move to Saudi Arabia

Karim Benzema has revealed that the country’s Muslim identity and the attractive Saudi football project were the reasons behind his move. In an interview with the Roshn Saudi League, the former Real Madrid forward said, “Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country, and they welcomed me with open hands, and I felt loved immediately. As a Muslim, when you are in Mecca, you feel at peace … it is an exceptional place.” 

He then talked about the Saudi project and said, “When the football project started here, it seemed like a huge project in all respects, and I wanted to be a part of it and help advance the game in Saudi Arabia, and this is one of the reasons that made me come here.” Benzema’s move is going to have an enormous impact on his side. He will help the club grow on and off the pitch. The five-time UCL winner will bring excellent quality to Al-Ittihad’s attacking options. His experience will be crucial in developing the young players around him.

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Benzema and Al-Ittihad’s decent start to the season

Despite being 35, Benzema is still looking sharp and has started the season in decent form. The superstar has made five goal contributions in seven appearances for his new side. The Tigers have the best defense in the league, conceding only six goals in nine games. They have strengthed their side by signing the likes of N’Golo Kanté, Fabinho, and Jota. Despite their decent start, they sit 3rd in the league table, four points adrift of Neymar‘s Al-Hilal. 

Al-Ittihad will fight for the title this season. With all the clubs improving their side, the Saudi League has become one of the most competitive leagues in the world. But Al-Ittihad will expect their number to play a significant part in his side’s upcoming fixtures. If Benzema remains fit, it will be interesting to see where Al-Ittihad finishes in the league this season.

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