Khaberni - Saudi press reports revealed new financial details related to the transfer of French player Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal during the last winter transfer window, noting that his departure was not only technical.
According to the "Okaz" newspaper, Benzema's departure saved Al-Ittihad the salaries of 14 employees who were directly associated with the French star, in addition to reducing large operational expenses.
The newspaper explained that the club was bearing the cost of renting an entire floor in a luxurious 5-star hotel overlooking the Red Sea for the player and his family, in addition to providing a complete crew for his service and security.
This included: (4 security guards for personal protection, a private driver, a chef and food preparers, a nutrition specialist, a massage specialist, a personal trainer, a clothing manager, a hair stylist).
This made the cost of the player's presence exceed his annual salary, covering a complete system that was dispensed with immediately after his transfer to Al-Hilal.
The controversy surrounding Benzema's departure did not stop at the financial aspect, but also extended to indirect messages from the club.
After a resounding victory over Al-Gharafa of Qatar (7-0) in the Elite Champions League, the official account of Al-Ittihad posted on the "X" platform a phrase: "A relaxed victory.. after a burden was lifted"
Many interpreted the message as referring to Benzema’s departure, especially with local reports confirming that the club's management felt "relieved" after ending the contractual relationship.
Also, the president of Al-Ittihad Company, Fahd Al-Sindi, stated that the player's departure was "necessary," without revealing details.
Despite the controversy, Benzema's numbers remain notable during his time with Al-Ittihad from the summer of 2023 to January 2026: (83 official matches, 54 goals, 17 decisive passes).
Specifically in the 2024-2025 season, he played a prominent role in leading the team to a double win of the league and King's Cup, after scoring 25 goals and making 9 in 33 matches.
But the beginning of the 2025-2026 season saw fluctuations in his performance, before he decided to move to Al-Hilal amid financial disputes during contract renewal negotiations.
Opinions were divided about the deal, as some saw Al-Ittihad losing an important offensive leader, while others considered that the club got rid of a large financial burden, especially after contracting Moroccan Youssef En-Nesyri and strengthening its squad with new elements.
