Al-Hilal defender Kalidou Koulibaly has welcomed Karim Benzema’s high-profile move to the Saudi giants, describing the French forward’s arrival as a major boost and insisting the squad is fully committed to helping him thrive and deliver trophies.
Speaking to the press, the Senegalese international praised Benzema’s stature in the game, noting that the excitement surrounding his decision to join Al-Hilal has significantly raised expectations.
Koulibaly stressed that the entire team is determined to create the right atmosphere for the veteran striker to perform at his best and play a decisive role in the club’s pursuit of silverware next season.
“We had spoken before, and we knew he was capable of helping us. Thank God he will come to us with great motivation. We know he is a great player, Karim is a true legend, and we will do everything we can to ensure he is at his best with Al-Hilal and helps us,” the defender said.
Koulibaly added, “I previously answered the question about whether he will help us or not, and Benzema is certainly a legend and a very great player, and he is very excited. I spoke with him during the last two days, and thank God he will come with us, and we will do everything to ensure he is at his best with Al-Hilal and helps us win some championships.”
Al-Hilal officially announced the signing of Benzema, formerly captain of Al-Ittihad Jeddah, following weeks of speculation linking the Ballon d’Or winner with a switch to the Riyadh-based club. The move came on the back of a turbulent period between the player and his former side, which ultimately paved the way for his exit.
In an official statement, Al-Hilal confirmed that Benzema has signed a one-and-a-half-year contract that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2027. The deal is viewed as a strategic move to reinforce the attacking department with a player whose career is decorated with experience and major honours.
Benzema’s departure from Al-Ittihad followed the collapse of negotiations over a contract renewal, after both parties failed to agree on new terms.
The situation intensified when the French striker informed club officials of his decision not to feature in the final two matches against Al-Fateh and Al-Najma, signalling a complete breakdown in relations.
