After he completed his move to the Middle East on Tuesday, how much Karim Benzema will earn in Saudi Arabia annually has reportedly been revealed.
Check Out: Official: Benzema Makes Mega-Money Move To Saudi Arabia
The 35-year-old said goodbye to Real Madrid on Sunday at the Santiago Bernabeu, ending his 14-year stay at the club with a goal in his former team's 1-1 home draw with Athletic Bilbao.
According to head coach Carlo Ancelotti, Benzema only informed the Spanish giants of his decision on the morning of the game, admitting he was surprised by the Frenchman's call to move on after it initially appeared he would extend his stay for a further 12 months.
On Tuesday night, it was announced by Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad that the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner has become their blockbuster signing ahead of next season.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims the ex-France international will earn almost a staggering €200 million (R4.1 billion) a year in the Middle East, making him one of the sport's highest-paid players of all time.
Official, confirmed. Karim Benzema joins Al Ittihad on two year deal with option for further season. ???????? #AlIttihadBenzema will earn almost €200m per season net salary, commercial deals included. pic.twitter.com/vSrkL4zjJI
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 6, 2023
Cristiano Ronaldo's switch to Saudi Arabia to join Al Nassr seems to have kick-started a new wave in football, with more high-profile players expected to take their careers to the Gulf country in the coming months, including N'Golo Kante and Sergio Ramos.
Check Out: Ancelotti Reacts To 'Surprise' Benzema Decision
Lionel Messi, meanwhile, is believed to have received a formal offer from Al Hilal.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments
WATCH VIDEO:
