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Karim Benzema reveals key factor in ditching Real Madrid for Al Ittihad.
Karim Benzema has said that the chance to live in a Muslim country was a major factor in his decision to emigrate to Saudi Arabia.
Many expected the 35-year-old Frenchman to extend his time at the Santiago Bernabeu by at least another year before deciding to depart Real Madrid at the end of his contract.
However, Benzema decided to accept the opportunity to move to Saudi Arabia after meeting with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, signing a three-year contract with champions Al Ittihad on Tuesday.
Given that numerous other prominent players have also received substantial offers, Benzema’s entrance could lead to a mass migration from Europe’s top five leagues to Saudi Arabia.
Wilfried Zaha and N’Golo Kante are close to joining Al Ittihad and Al Nassr, respectively, while according to 90min, Neymar’s representatives have spoken with people about moving to the Middle East.
On Thursday, Al Ittihad presented Benzema as their star newcomer, and the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner acknowledged that his faith had influenced his decision to follow a particular path.
“Well, because I’m muslim and this is a muslim country, and I have always wanted to live here,” Benzema told the club’s media channels.
“I’m so ready to show my talent in this new challenge, there are so many big names play here in this league – Cristiano Ronaldo and now me,” he continued.
“So, it’s very important to show that Saudi football can have a global impact, because it’s not only about playing well here, I should bring the success I managed to achieve in Europe and play the same way I used to do with Real Madrid.
“[Ronaldo] is my friend and he is here. It’s amazing to see him here in Saudi Arabia, also he represents the new era of football in this country and the progress that’s happening here, which is important on the international level.”
Prior to the unexpected opportunity to relocate to Saudi Arabia, where he will become one of the highest-paid players in the history of football, Benzema stated he intended to retire at Real Madrid. However, after speaking with his family, he decided to change his mind.