Karim Benzema has ended his brief tenure with Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal less than eight months after joining the team. The club announced the mutual termination of Benzema’s contract on Monday, expressing gratitude for his contributions and professionalism during his time with the squad.

Benzema, the former France international and Real Madrid striker, transferred to Al Hilal earlier this year following a contract dispute at his previous Saudi club, Al Ittihad. He initially joined Al Ittihad in 2023, playing a key role in securing the Saudi Pro League title for the Jeddah-based team in 2025. However, a disagreement over a contract extension led to his January move to Riyadh-based Al Hilal for the remainder of the season.

Despite having one year remaining on his playing contract, Benzema remains tied to Saudi Arabia through a separate agreement that designates him an ambassador for Saudi tourism and the 2034 World Cup, a role extending until 2030.

The announcement of Benzema’s departure came shortly after Al Hilal acquired England international Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa for a reported fee of £50 million ($68 million). At 38 years old, Benzema has indicated he does not intend to retire and reportedly holds offers from Major League Soccer in the United States as well as other Saudi clubs.

Al Hilal wished the forward success as he moves forward in his career. Benzema also acknowledged the end of his chapter with the club in a social media post, thanking them for his experience.

The departure concludes a relatively short but notable period for Benzema in Saudi football, marked by his influence on and off the pitch amid the kingdom's efforts to raise the profile of its domestic leagues and international sporting events.