Karim Benzema: The former Real Madrid striker joins Al-Ittihad, the Saudi champion, after his departure from the Santiago Bernabeu | football news

Karim Benzema joined the Saudi club Al-Ittihad after his departure from Real Madrid.

The French striker announced his departure from the Spanish club last weekend, ending a 14-year spell in which he won the league title on four occasions and the Champions League five times.

The federation is run by Nuno Espirito Santo, former coach of Wolverhampton and Tottenham, and finished last season with a five-point difference from the victory that came in the second season, Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Benzema: I will never forget Real Madrid

Benzema He said goodbye to Real Madrid In a small private ceremony closed to fans and the media on Tuesday after they chose to leave the club.

“I will never forget Real Madrid,” Benzema said. “It’s impossible. It’s the best club in history but I think it’s time to leave and tell another story.

“It’s hard to speak with so much emotion but I wanted to thank Real Madrid and my teammates. It’s been a good path in my life. I was lucky enough to fulfill my childhood dream.”

Benzema scored 354 goals during his 14 years with Real Madrid and ranks second in the club’s history behind Cristiano Ronaldo.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez Benzema said: “You have been a model of behavior and professionalism for our club.

“You have earned the right to decide your own destiny. The future belongs only to you and we must respect it.”

Ancelotti: Benzema’s exit from Real Madrid surprised me

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said he was surprised after Benzema announced his departure from the club after 14 years.

Speaking of Benzema, who had previously suggested to the club legend “to retire at Real Madrid,” he said: “Yes, it was a surprise, it was a big surprise for everyone but we had to understand that he thought twice about it and that is part of the process that started in This club a few years ago, a transitional period that will continue next season.

“So we have enough time to think twice about what we need to do [to replace Benzema] And the team will be very competitive next season, I can assure you of that.”

The former France international joined Real from his hometown club Lyon in 2009 and has played 658 matches.

Ancelotti paid tribute to the late striker after his final game for the club, telling reporters that he had coached one of the “best players in the world” and also praising the striker’s seasoned temperament.

He said, “Well, to be able to coach one of the best players in the world and one of the best strikers in the world, not just a striker, a very complete footballer. A very nice person, very humble, very serious.”

“It’s clear in his farewell, we can’t be happy but we need to respect his decision. He’s earned the right to choose where he wants to be and I and everyone else want to thank him for what he’s been able to do at this club which he’s been legendary for.” Something unbelievable, unforgettable and will stay at the club forever.”