Karim Benzema Completes Switch to Al-Hilal Despite Ronaldo’s Protest

Key Takeaways:

• Karim Benzema signed for Al Hilal after departing Al Ittihad, with the deal delayed but finalised on deadline day
• The 2023 Ballon d’Or winner will play for 4th different club in his career
• Cristiano Ronaldo refused to play for Al Nassr on Monday in protest over PIF’s perceived lack of investment, following Benzema’s transfer to Al Hilal

Benzema’s Transfer Unfolds After Deadline Day Drama

Karim Benzema has completed a move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, following a period of uncertainty involving intervention by the Saudi Ministry of Sports and the Public Investment Fund (PIF), as confirmed by the club on Monday. Al Hilal made the transfer official, declaring, “Karim Benzema is officially Hilali,” on X.

Karim Benzema is officially Hilali ✍️💙 pic.twitter.com/7YX5STm2z9

— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) February 2, 2026

According to sources, Benzema, aged 38, chose not to extend his contract with Al Ittihad – set to expire in six months – after labelling their renewal offer as disrespectful. The proposed extension would reportedly have resulted in him playing without pay, prompting PIF to orchestrate his switch to league rivals Al Hilal. The last-minute deal ensures the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner remains in the Saudi Pro League, despite having received offers from clubs in Europe. Benzema’s decision was influenced in part by his image rights agreement with Saudi Arabia, which runs until 2030.

Repercussions for Al Nassr and Ronaldo

The transfer had immediate consequences elsewhere in the league. Sources indicated that Cristiano Ronaldo was angered by PIF’s strategy, believing it favoured Al Ittihad and did not sufficiently support Al Nassr. In protest of Benzema’s move, Ronaldo refused to play for Al Nassr on Monday. The Portuguese international has yet to win a league title since his arrival in Saudi Arabia in 2022, and now faces further competition, with Benzema – a five-time Champions League winner and his former teammate at Real Madrid – strengthening a major rival.

Al Hilal’s Credentials and Recent Successes

Al Hilal boasts an illustrious history, having claimed 21 Saudi league titles and four Asian Championships. The club made headlines last year by defeating Manchester City 4-3 at the Club World Cup, eliminating Pep Guardiola’s side from the tournament. Under the direction of Simone Inzaghi, a two-time Champions League finalist, Al Hilal poses a significant threat to Ronaldo’s hopes of league glory, especially as top European talents, including Benzema, continue to be attracted to the Saudi Pro League.