Karim Benzema Provoked Cristiano Ronaldo With Text After Joining Rivals Al Hilal

Karim Benzema reportedly sent a text message to Cristiano Ronaldo after joining Al Nassr's rivals, Al Hilal.

Back in the summer of 2023, Benzema ditched European football by leaving Real Madrid for Saudi Professional League side Al Ittihad.

The Frenchman went on to score 57 goals in 87 appearances across all competitions for Al Ittihad, winning the Saudi Pro League and the King's Cup once.

Last month, Benzema left Al Ittihad to join rivals Al Hilal on a free transfer, signing a deal until 2027.

Saying goodbye to Al Ittihad, Benzema wrote: "Al Ittihad, This chapter comes to an end, but the respect and gratitude will always remain.

"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."

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

Karim Benzema joined Al Hilal this winter. Image: Getty

Three days after joining, the Frenchman netted a hat-trick during a 6-0 victory over Al Okhdood.

At the time, it was reported that Benzema's transfer had annoyed Ronaldo.

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.

It has since been reported by The Telegraph, Benzema 'texted Ronaldo and observed jokingly that not only had he got a pay-rise but he was also going to win the title again'.

Benzema and Ronaldo are set to battle for the title this season with Al Hilal currently one point ahead of Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League table.

Al Hilal will be back in action on Friday night against Al Ettifaq.