Karim Benzema Issues Statement After Cristiano Ronaldo's Strike to Block Move

Karim Benzema has posted a statement to social media following his controversial move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, which reportedly caused Cristiano Ronaldo to go on strike at Al Nassr.

Benzema signed for Al Hilal on transfer deadline day (February 2), having registered 54 goals and 17 assists for now-previous club, Al Ittihad, since his arrival from Real Madrid in 2023.

Al Hilal are currently top of the Saudi Pro League ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr by just one point after 19 league games.

And the 38-year-old’s arrival has reportedly annoyed Ronaldo, who, according to Sky News, appeared to go on strike ahead of his side’s 1-0 win against Al Riyadh on Monday.

Ronaldo’s frustrations supposedly relate to the way in which the club is being managed, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner feeling that other Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund-owned clubs are getting preferential treatment in the transfer market.

PIF (Public Investment Fund) owns 75 per cent of Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad.

During the 2025/26 campaign, Al Hilal are the Saudi Pro League’s top spenders with an expenditure of around £166.5 million, while Al Nassr sit fourth on the list behind Al-Qadsiah and NEOM, having spent £89.8 million.

Meanwhile, Al Ittihad are fifth, having spent slightly less than Al Nassr.

Of course, Ronaldo’s feelings may also have something to do with the fact that he’s yet to win the league in the Middle East, having previously won titles in England, Spain and Italy.

Despite Ronaldo’s apparent stance, Benzema will play for Al Hilal and likely boost their chances of winning the 2025/26 Saudi Pro League.

After the transfer was confirmed by Al Hilal, Benzema took to social media to thank the club’s staff, fans and his now-former teammates.

“Al Ittihad, This chapter comes to an end, but the respect and gratitude will always remain,” the Frenchman wrote.

“Thank you to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the fans for the welcome, the love, and the energy you gave me every day.

“This journey gave me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colours and of everything we shared. I wish you all the best for what’s next.

“Respect. KB9.”

Al Hilal return to action on Thursday (February 5) against Al Akhdoud before Al Nassr face Al Ittihad the following day (February 6).