Karim Benzema ends Al-Hilal stint by mutual contract termination
The 38-year-old Ballon d'Or winner leaves Riyadh after six months and becomes a free agent.
Karim Benzema and Al-Hilal have agreed to terminate their contract, ending the French forward's brief spell in Riyadh after just six months.
The 38-year-old Ballon d'Or winner arrived in January from Al-Ittihad and leaves the Saudi club as a free agent. During his time with Al-Hilal he featured in 16 matches, scored 10 goals and registered five assists.
Next steps uncertain
Benzema is weighing his future: reports say he is considering either continuing his playing career in Saudi Arabia or retiring. A move to Major League Soccer (MLS) has been mentioned as a possibility, while a return to European football is not expected at this time.
The mutual termination closes a short chapter for one of football's most decorated strikers, who now faces decisions about whether to extend his career or step away from the game.
Al-Hilal confirmed the parties reached an agreement to end the contract and the club will now move forward without the veteran attacker as it prepares for the next phase of the domestic and continental calendar.
Photo: press material from the event
