‎Karim Benzema Completes Stunning Deadline-Day Switch to Al-Hilal as Ronaldo Frustration Grows

By: Shawn
‎Karim Benzema has finalized an unexpected January deadline-day transfer, leaving Al-Ittihad to join Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal. The former Real Madrid striker was approaching the final months of his contract at Al-Ittihad before completing the move.
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‎Karim Benzema has sealed a shock January transfer from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal, a move that has reportedly angered Cristiano Ronaldo amid Saudi Pro League title tensions.
‎Getty Images Sport 
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‎The transfer is believed to have caused frustration for Cristiano Ronaldo, who has reportedly been unhappy with recent player movements within the Saudi Pro League. Benzema’s arrival at Al-Hilal further strengthens their squad as they chase the league title.
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‎Benzema has now followed Mohamed Kader Meïté in making the switch to Al-Hilal during the winter transfer window. According to ESPN, the deal briefly stalled earlier on deadline day due to reported dissatisfaction from Ronaldo. The Portugal international is said to be upset that Al-Hilal have reinforced their squad while Al-Nassr have been unable to do the same.
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‎Both Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr are owned by the Public Investment Fund and remain locked in a tight title race. After 19 matches, Al-Hilal sit at the top of the table, holding a narrow one-point advantage over Al-Nassr.
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‎Ronaldo was notably absent from Al-Nassr’s deadline-day clash against Al-Riyadh. Reports before the match suggested the 40-year-old was considering a strike in response to the league’s transfer activity. Al-Nassr have not provided an official explanation for his absence, and Ronaldo has yet to comment publicly on the speculation.
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‎If Ronaldo’s absence was intended as a protest, it appears to have had little effect. Benzema has now linked up with Al-Hilal as he pushes for a second Saudi Pro League title. Ronaldo, meanwhile, is still chasing his first league triumph since joining Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2022.
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‎Despite turning 38 in December, Benzema continues to perform at a high level. He has scored eight goals in 14 league appearances this season and recently dismissed any thoughts of retirement.
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‎Speaking to AS, Benzema previously explained that his future was still under consideration, highlighting his strong physical condition and desire to continue playing for at least two more years. He also confirmed receiving offers from Europe, stating that any decision would depend on multiple factors and mutual expectations.
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‎Attention now turns to upcoming fixtures. Al-Hilal face struggling Al Akhdoud on Thursday, with a chance to extend their lead at the top. Al-Nassr, meanwhile, are set to play Benzema’s former club Al-Ittihad on Friday night, with fans eager to see when Ronaldo will return to action.

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