Karim Benzema could retire at end of season with Real Madrid role lined up | OneFootball

According to a report by Relevo, Karim Benzema (36) has begun to consider his options for the future. The former Real Madrid star and France international currently plays in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad Club where he has a contract lasting until 2026.

However, the Spanish outlet writes that Benzema is thinking about his retirement and could end his playing career at the end of the season. Despite a first season where he struggled to adjust to life in the Gulf State and did not see eye-to-eye with either of his two managers, Nuno Espírito Santo or Marcelo Gallardo, the French striker has begun to rediscover his form in his second season.

Under fellow countryman Lauren Blanc, Benzema has scored 10 goals in 11 games and is behind only Aleksandar Mitrović (30) in the goal-scoring charts. Al-Ittihad expect Benzema to honour his contract but would not be unhappy if he left in 2025 as his salary of around €100 million would free them from a significant financial commitment.

Real Madrid eye future role for Karim Benzema

Benzema already has a future role in mind following his on-field career. It’s reported that Real Madrid would like to recruit him as a club ambassador, with his links with the Middle East highly appreciated. Relevo writes that the club have an eye on that part of the world and they see Benzema as a market attraction.

GFFN | Nick Hartland