Karim Benzema, a striker for Real Madrid, has announced that he will quit the team this summer after his contract expires.
Since Saudi Arabia expressed interest in hiring the 35-year-old last week, the player's future has been uncertain. However, after initially leaning toward moving to the Middle East, Benzema is thought to have been persuaded to stay with Real for at least one more season.
But after more discussions with Real, it was decided that Benzema would leave the team this summer.
"Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club," read a statement from the team.
"Real Madrid wants to express its appreciation and love for a man who is already among our greatest legends.
"Karim Benzema's Real Madrid career has been a model of conduct and professionalism, and it has exemplified the ideals of our club. Karim Benzema has a right to select his own path in life.
"Madridistas and all football fans around the world have loved his enchanted and distinctive style of play, which has elevated him to the status of a legendary figure in both our club and the game at large.
Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and he sends his warmest wishes to him and the rest of his family as they embark on this new chapter.
"An institutional act of tribute and farewell to Karim Benzema will take place at Real Madrid City on Tuesday, June 6, at 12:00 noon, in our president Florentino's presence.
In his 647 appearances for Los Blancos, Benzema, who joined Real from Lyon in the summer of 2009, has amassed 353 goals and 165 assists. He may add to that total in his farewell game against Athletic Club on Sunday.
This summer, Karim Benzema will depart Real Madrid.
READ THE LATEST REAL MADRID NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP
blogpay
Total Comments: 0