Karim Benzema faces a defining career decision after Al-Hilal departure

Karim Benzema is expected to reveal his next move shortly after ending his contract with Al-Hilal by mutual consent, with the 38-year-old now a free agent and several options still open to him.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, the former France international’s next destination could become clear in the very near future.

Reliable journalist Bertrand Latour said on the programme Late Football Club that Benzema would soon bring an end to the uncertainty surrounding the next stage of his career.

“We will know Karim Benzema’s future very soon,” Latour said.

Benzema, who won the 2022 Ballon d’Or, is now free to negotiate with and sign for any club of his choosing. An announcement about his future is therefore expected quickly, although the striker is believed not to have decided whether he will retire from professional football.

His spell with Al-Hilal ultimately lasted only half a season. The Saudi club signed him from Al-Ittihad during the previous winter transfer window, and Benzema made an immediate contribution in the Saudi Pro League.

In 10 league appearances for Al-Hilal, the former Real Madrid forward scored nine goals and provided two assists. Despite that return, the agreement between player and club has now been terminated, leaving Benzema to consider the final major decision of his playing career.

A return to Europe appears to be the least likely outcome, with a move back to Olympique Lyonnais, the club where he developed, currently considered improbable. However, a number of alternatives remain available to him.

Benzema could choose to continue playing in Saudi Arabia, where he has spent the recent part of his career, or he could pursue a move to Major League Soccer in the United States.

The France striker must now decide whether to continue competing or bring his career to an end. If he does remain in the game, his next club could represent the last significant challenge of a career that has already included the Ballon d’Or and a long spell at Real Madrid.

For now, there has been no confirmation of which direction Benzema will take. Latour’s comments suggest that the wait may not last much longer, with the player’s eventual decision expected to clarify whether he has one more move ahead of him or is preparing to retire.