Sending shockwaves through the football community, French striker Karim Benzema has taken the world by surprise with his official transfer to Al-Ittihad, the reigning champions of the Saudi Pro League.
The unexpected move has left fans, pundits, and football enthusiasts in awe, as the 35-year-old bids farewell to his long-standing tenure at Real Madrid and embraces a new and exciting chapter in his illustrious career.
The transfer was announced by Al-Ittihad's official social media accounts, accompanied by an elaborate unveiling ceremony held at the club's home stadium in Jeddah. The event attracted a large crowd of enthusiastic fans who were eagerly awaiting the arrival of the renowned forward.
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The current Ballon d'Or winner had been linked with a move to the Middle East, and it was revealed on Tuesday that he had signed for champions Al Ittihad.
He has agreed to a three-year contract with the squad that finished 5 points ahead of Ronaldo's Al Nassr and will allegedly earn $643 million during that period.
That calculates out to £471,000 each day as the moon circles around the earth, £19,643 per hour, and £327 every 60 seconds.
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Karim Benzema's move to Al-Ittihad comes after an impressive season with Real Madrid, during which he played a crucial role in the team's success. He showcased his exceptional goal-scoring ability and provided valuable contributions, solidifying his reputation as one of the world's top strikers.
The transfer fee involved in the move remains undisclosed, but reports suggest that Al-Ittihad has spared no expense in securing Benzema's signature. The Saudi club's ambitious plans to strengthen their squad have become evident with this high-profile signing, signaling their determination to dominate both domestically and on the continental stage.
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Benzema's arrival at Al-Ittihad brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the team. Having won numerous titles with Real Madrid, including four UEFA Champions League trophies and five La Liga titles, he will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the Saudi outfit. His technical prowess, agility, and clinical finishing abilities are expected to bolster Al-Ittihad's attacking options significantly.
This move also presents a new challenge for Benzema personally, as he enters a different footballing culture and competitive environment. The Frenchman will have the opportunity to showcase his skills against formidable opponents in the Saudi Pro League, which has been growing in prominence and attracting top talent from around the world.
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Fans and pundits alike are eager to see how Benzema adapts to his new surroundings and how he will influence Al-Ittihad's fortunes going forward. The striker himself expressed his excitement about the new chapter in his career, acknowledging the club's ambition and its potential for success.
Karim Benzema's move to Al-Ittihad represents another significant addition to the ever-expanding list of high-profile footballers joining the Saudi Pro League in recent years. This trend further highlights the league's growing stature and its increasing ability to attract world-class talent from established European clubs.
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As the football community absorbs the news of Benzema's move, it is clear that the Saudi Pro League has once again made a bold statement in the global football landscape. Al-Ittihad's acquisition of the prolific French striker has undoubtedly set high expectations for the upcoming season and has further cemented the league's reputation as a rising force in the world of football.