Real Madrid’s most decorated player Karim Benzema is to leave the club after 14 years.
Former France striker Benzema, 35, won 25 trophies during his time in Madrid and scored 354 goals in 648 appearances to become Real’s second all-time top scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo.
He netted for the final time for Real in their last game of the season on Sunday night, a penalty equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao.
“Real Madrid would like to show its gratitude and affection to a player who is already one of our greatest legends.
“Karim Benzema’s career at Real Madrid has been a shining example of conduct and professionalism, and he has represented the values of our club.
“Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future.
? Unforgettable.3⃣5⃣4⃣ goals in a Real Madrid shirt.#GraciasKarim pic.twitter.com/9m4ez3F34o
— Real Madrid C.F. ???? (@realmadriden) June 4, 2023
“Madridistas and all the fans around the world have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great icons of our club and one of the great legends of world football.
“Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and we wish him and all his family the best in this new stage of his life.”
Benzema, the current Ballon d’Or and UEFA Player of the Year, joined Real from Lyon in July 2009 for a reported transfer fee of 35 million euros.
Benzema has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad.
Real have confirmed they will hold “an institutional act of tribute and farewell” to Benzema in the Spanish capital on Tuesday in the presence of club president Florentino Perez.
