Karim Benzema’s career salary rise from Lyon to Al-Hilal

Karim Benzema’s next career move remains uncertain after his contract with Al-Hilal was terminated by mutual agreement.

The French striker could still return to European football, remain in Saudi Arabia while fulfilling his ambassadorial commitments through 2030, or retire after an extraordinarily profitable career.

Since beginning professionally with Lyon, Benzema has built an estimated €360 million in gross career salaries over 22 years. That figure represents an average of roughly €16 million per season and excludes bonuses, investments and commercial earnings.

His financial rise was gradual. At Lyon, he reportedly earned around €210,000 per month between 2004 and 2006. After joining Real Madrid, his monthly salary increased to approximately €705,000, later rising to €915,000, €1.1 million and €1.5 million during successive contract periods.

The biggest jump came after his move to Saudi Arabia. At Al-Ittihad, Benzema reportedly earned about €4 million per month from 2023 to 2026. His short Al-Hilal spell carried an estimated monthly salary of €8.3 million, the highest figure of his career.

Commercial income added further wealth, with Forbes estimating his sponsorship earnings at about $4 million annually.