Karim Benzema’s Al Hilal chapter ends with Prince Alwaleed-backed agreement

Al Hilal have officially ended Karim Benzema’s contract by mutual consent, bringing the French striker’s time with the Saudi Pro League club to a close.

The announcement was made on Monday, with the club confirming that Benzema’s contractual relationship had been terminated after an agreement between the two parties. Al Hilal also credited Prince Alwaleed bin Talal with covering the value of the settlement required to complete the separation.

In a statement published on the club’s official website, Al Hilal expressed its appreciation to Prince Alwaleed bin Talal for meeting the financial terms of the agreement. The settlement enabled the club’s company to conclude its contractual association with Benzema by mutual consent.

The club’s board also offered its “sincere thanks and appreciation” to Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, saying his continued support and historic initiatives demonstrated his lasting commitment to Al Hilal. The statement added that his backing helped strengthen the club’s sporting journey, support its objectives and preserve its competitive standing.

Al Hilal published the announcement under the message: “Al Hilal and Benzema agree to end their contractual relationship by mutual consent.”

The confirmation follows several reports in recent days that negotiations were under way to terminate Benzema’s contract. The discussions came as the striker was reported to have fallen out of favour with the coaching staff led by Simone Inzaghi.

Al Hilal are also preparing to restructure their attacking options during the summer transfer window. The club had already moved to address Benzema’s departure, announcing the signing of England forward Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa.

Watkins’ arrival reflects Al Hilal’s intention to refresh their forward line before the start of the new season. The move came shortly after Benzema, who joined the club during the winter, was linked with an exit.

Benzema’s next step remains undecided. Reports indicate that the 38-year-old is considering several possibilities, including continuing his playing career or bringing it to an end after his spell in Saudi Arabia.

The Frenchman’s departure was also marked by Al Hilal on social media, where the club posted a tribute using the message: “Karim in Al Hilal’s memory. Thank you, Benzema.”

His exit formally closes an association that had begun only in the previous winter transfer period. Al Hilal’s decision to reach a mutual settlement, followed by the recruitment of Watkins, leaves the club moving into the new season with a revised attacking structure under Inzaghi.

The club also continues to promote ticket sales for Saudi Pro League matches, directing supporters to purchase seats for upcoming games.