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Karim Benzema to leave Real Madrid this summer.
Karim Benzema, a striker for Real Madrid, has announced that he will be leaving the team this summer once his contract expires.
Since Saudi Arabia expressed interest in hiring the 35-year-old last week, the player’s future has been uncertain. However, after initially leaning toward moving to the Middle East, Benzema is thought to have been persuaded to stay with Real for at least one more season.
But after more discussions with Real, it was decided that Benzema would depart the team this summer.
“Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club,” a club statement read.
“Real Madrid wants to show its gratitude and all its affection for who is already one of our greatest legends.
“Karim Benzema’s career at Real Madrid has been an example of behaviour and professionalism, and has represented the values of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future.
“Madridistas and all the fans around the world have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great myths of our club and one of the great legends of world football.
“Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and he wishes him and all his family the best in this new phase of his life.
“Next Tuesday, June 6, at 12:00 noon, an institutional act of tribute and farewell to Karim Benzema will take place at Real Madrid City, with the presence of our president Florentino Perez.”
Comunicado Oficial: Benzema.#RealMadrid.
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) June 4, 2023
In his 647 appearances for Los Blancos, Benzema, who joined Real from Lyon in the summer of 2009, has amassed 353 goals and 165 assists. He may add to that total in his farewell game against Athletic Club on Sunday.