Al-Hilal said in a statement published on its official website that the club and Karim Benzema had mutually agreed to terminate their contractual relationship. The announcement on Monday ended the forward’s association with the Saudi Pro League side after six months. The club expressed its appreciation for the contributions Benzema made during his time with the team. It also praised the professionalism, commitment and leadership the 38-year-old demonstrated both on and off the pitch.
The statement extended sincere thanks to Benzema for his time in the Al-Hilal shirt and wished him success in the next chapter of his career. Benzema posted on social media that “A chapter comes to an end” following the news. The former Real Madrid striker joined Al-Hilal from Al-Ittihad in February after a contract dispute at his previous club.
Benzema recorded 10 goals and five assists in 16 appearances for Al-Hilal, The Athletic reported. His exit came one day after the club completed the signing of English striker Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa for 51 million pounds. Watkins agreed a three-year contract with Al-Hilal.
The 38-year-old had initially moved to Saudi Arabia from Real Madrid in 2023 to join Al-Ittihad where he scored 54 goals in 83 games and helped win the league title in 2025. After leading the scoring charts for Al-Ittihad the following season as well, Benzema switched to Al-Hilal midway through the 2025-26 campaign. He had one year remaining on his deal with the Riyadh club before the mutual termination.
Prior to his Saudi adventure, Benzema enjoyed a glittering 14-year career at Real Madrid in which he won 25 trophies including five Champions League crowns. The 2022 Ballon d’Or recipient scored 354 goals in 648 matches for the Spanish side and represented France on 97 occasions with 37 goals. His departure leaves his playing future uncertain although some reports suggest retirement is not imminent.
Benzema retains an ambassadorial position with the Saudi Pro League until 2030 tied to tourism promotion and the 2034 World Cup bid. Al-Hilal is actively reshaping its squad with the addition of high-profile talents like Watkins as it targets further success in domestic and continental competitions. The club continues its preparations for an upcoming match against Al-Ahli.
