Karim Benzema has opened up on his move to Al Ittihad as he's discussed the standard of football in Saudi Arabia.
Benzema enjoyed 14 prolific, trophy-laden seasons at Real Madrid before securing a lucrative transfer to Al Ittihad.
Only Cristiano Ronaldo earns more money than him in Saudi Arabia, with a wave of players since leaving Europe for the Middle East.
The Frenchman has now revealed the reasons behind his move to Saudi Arabia and gave his honest thoughts on the level of football in the Saudi Pro League.
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"When the football project started in Saudi Arabia, it seemed huge in all aspects. I wanted to be a part of it and help football move forward in this country," he said.
"There is a lot of passion here and I am happy with the level of the game. I’m really surprised by the level in Saudi Arabia because in Europe we don’t see many football matches here. Now, they do.”
The 35-year-old, who is a Muslim, also explained how his religious beliefs allowed him to settle in Saudi Arabia.
"As a Muslim, when you are in Mecca you feel at peace. It’s an exceptional place. Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country," he added. "They welcomed me with open arms and I felt loved immediately."
Benzema left the Spanish giants, having scored a staggering 354 goals - winning four La Liga titles and five Champions Leagues.
He's proud of his stint at Real but wanted a new challenge in his legendary career.
“I am very happy and proud with everything I have done and won with Real Madrid, but I think for me it was a good time to try something new in my life after everything I had already won in Madrid."
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Topics: Karim Benzema, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Pro League, Football
Nasir Jabbar