Karim Benzema and Al Hilal Part Ways After Six-Month Stint

On August 31, 2026, Al Hilal Club Company announced that it and French striker Karim Benzema had mutually agreed to terminate his contract, ending his tenure with the Saudi Pro League (SPL) side after roughly six months.

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Benzema’s arrival in January 2026 followed a broader wave of European talent moving to Saudi Arabia after the Public Investment Fund (PIF) took controlling stakes in Al Ittihad, Al Nassr, Al Ahli and Al Hilal. The SPL’s aggressive recruitment strategy aimed to raise the league’s profile, with Benzema joining Al Hilal after a brief spell at rival Al Ittihad. His signing marked the end of a 14-year spell at Real Madrid, during which he won 24 trophies, including the 2022 Ballon d’Or.

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• Appearances: Reports differ on the number of matches Benzema played for Al Hilal. The New York Times noted 16 appearances, while Heavy reported 14 appearances.

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• Goals: Both sources agree he scored 10 goals.

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• Assists: The New York Times listed five assists; Heavy cited nine assists.

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• Contract Length: The original agreement was set to run through June 2027, meaning a year remained on the deal at the time of termination.

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Al Hilal’s official communication highlighted Benzema’s contributions and thanked him for his leadership. No detailed explanation for the termination was provided. ESPN reproduced the club’s statement verbatim, confirming the mutual nature of the decision and the appreciation expressed. Heavy added that the split was a notable development given the contract’s original three-year term.

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• Statistical Discrepancies: The differing counts of appearances (16 vs. 14) and assists (five vs. nine) illustrate incomplete alignment among sources.

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• Reason for Departure: While Heavy suggested a “change in direction” under new coach Simone Inzaghi, who reportedly did not view Benzema as central to his plans, the club’s statement offered no explicit rationale.

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• Future Destination: No official comment has been made regarding Benzema’s next club, leaving his options speculative.

Benzema at a crossroads: three options after leaving Al-Hilal

Goal reported that Benzema is weighing three primary options: remaining in Saudi Arabia (potentially returning to Al Ittihad or joining Al Shabab), moving to Major League Soccer in the United States, or exploring a stint in the Scottish league. The outlet cited “AS” as indicating Benzema has no intention to retire, while “Marca” noted that retirement has not been ruled out.

Benzema at a crossroads: three options after leaving Al-Hilal

The termination underscores the fluid nature of SPL contracts amid rapid squad overhauls, exemplified by Al Hilal’s recent £51 million (£69 million) acquisition of English forward Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa. As the summer transfer window approaches, Benzema’s next move will be closely watched by both Saudi clubs seeking experienced talent and overseas leagues hoping to attract a high-profile veteran.

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