Overview
- Al‑Hilal confirmed it ended Karim Benzema’s playing contract by mutual consent, leaving him a free agent in sporting terms.
- Lyon reportedly pursued a reunion this summer and Benzema was willing to sign for his boyhood club without taking a salary.
- Multiple outlets say a separate ambassadorial and image‑rights agreement with the Saudi Pro League and the Public Investment Fund runs to 2030 and includes exclusivity that prevents him playing for clubs outside the Kingdom.
- Reports link Benzema’s departure from Al‑Hilal to friction with coach Simone Inzaghi and the club’s signing of Ollie Watkins, which reduced his role in the squad.
- The ambassadorial constraint leaves Benzema with few realistic Europe options and increases retirement likelihood while still allowing the possibility of a domestic Saudi move if terms and his commitments permit.