Karim Benzema made a sensational start to life at Al-Hilal, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist in the Saudi Pro League leaders’ emphatic win over Al-Okhdood on Thursday.
The 38-year-old former Real Madrid striker dominated the match, underlining his enduring quality just days after completing a high-profile move from rivals Al-Ittihad. However, post-match attention quickly shifted from his on-field brilliance to the circumstances surrounding his exit.
When questioned about leaving Al-Ittihad without farewell messages to fans or teammates, Benzema dismissed the topic, insisting the focus remain on the game. “Let’s talk about the match only,” he said, before adding, “Ask them… ask the Al-Ittihad players,” in a response that hinted at lingering tension.
Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in 2023 and went on to score 49 goals for the club. Despite being offered a contract extension, he declined and instead joined Al-Hilal as a free agent on February 2. The move has fuelled speculation of strained relations between the player and his former club, adding extra edge to the build-up ahead of the next clash between the fierce rivals.
