Former France and Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has officially left Al Hilal after the Saudi Pro League club agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent.
The club confirmed the decision on Monday, bringing Benzema’s spell in Riyadh to an end less than eight months after he joined.
“Al Hilal Club Company and French player Karim Benzema have mutually agreed to terminate their contractual relationship, bringing his time with Al Hilal’s first football team to an end,” the club said in a statement on its website.
Al Hilal also expressed appreciation for the 38-year-old forward, praising his professionalism, commitment and leadership during his time at the club.
Benzema responded to the announcement on social media with a brief message.
“A chapter comes to an end,” he posted.
The former Ballon d’Or winner moved to Saudi Arabia from Real Madrid in 2023, joining Al Ittihad. He helped the Jeddah-based club win the Saudi Pro League title in 2025 before a dispute over a contract extension led to his departure.
He subsequently joined Al Hilal in Riyadh towards the end of January, signing a deal that was initially expected to keep him at the club beyond the current season.
The Frenchman still has a separate long-term agreement to serve as an ambassador for Saudi tourism and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which runs until 2030.
His departure from Al Hilal was announced a day after the club completed the signing of England striker Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa for a reported £50 million ($68 million).
Despite leaving Al Hilal, Benzema is reportedly not considering retirement.
Spanish newspaper AS has reported that the striker has received offers from clubs in Major League Soccer (MLS) and other Saudi Arabian teams.
Al Hilal wished Benzema success in the next stage of his career as the former Real Madrid star prepares for another move.
