CR7 had convinced Benzema to join the Saudis

Over the last few days, Karim Benzema has held all the cards and has had Real Madrid on tenterhooks. There was a lot of speculation that he would leave the club to go play in Saudi Arabia.

'AS' report that the forward even got as far as giving his word to the Saudi government he would go. The Frenchman seemed keen on a new adventure outside of Spain, but changed his mind at the last second, and seems as though he will stay at Madrid until 2024. 

Saudi media reported that Benzema's destiny lay with Al Ittihad. Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays at Al Nassr, had reportedly been the key player in Benzema's 'decision' to move.

The forward, according to 'AS' spoke with Ronaldo to learn firsthand about the league in Saudi Arabia. He asked him about the competition, the teams and what living there was like.

His former teammate told him about his experience and it was positive enough that the Frenchman seemed up for it. However, he clearly reconsidered. He will not go to Saudi Arabia ... or at least not right now. He plans to complete the year left on his contract, and after that will have time to reflect on where he wants to play next. 

 

June 1, 2023