Karim Benzema Explains Why He Left Real Madrid After 14 Years to Join Al Ittihad

• Karim Benzema has given reasons why he left Real Madrid after 14 years
• The veteran striker left to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad
• He made 0over 600 appearances for Madrid and scored over 300 goals

After 14 hugely successful years, Karim Benzema decided to leave Real Madrid in June to join Saudi Pro League giants Al_ttihad.

The veteran striker recently gave his reasons why he chose to leave the club where he had the best moments of his career.

The 35-year-old was reportedly set to stay for one more year but chose to join Al-Ittihad, where he signed a two-year deal worth ping £172m per year, per 90min.

Benzema has been great this season so far, scoring three goals in the Saudi Pro League. His side are fourth in the table with 19 points, four behind leaders Al-Hilal.

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Benzema was one of the big names to move to the SPL. Neymar, Sadio Mane and N'Golo Kante were some other big names who moved to the league.

The Frenchman was a key player at Real Madrid in one of their most successful eras. He made 647 appearances and scored 353 goals. He won five Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. He is also the reigning Ballon d'Or winner.

Benzema on leaving Real Madrid

Speaking to the Saudi Pro League, the striker said he wanted a new challenge, and Saudi Arabia was perfect for him.

"Well with everything I've made and gained with Real Madrid, I think it was for me the good moment to try a new challenge," he said. "For a really long time, even before football, I always wanted to come here. Also, it's a Muslim country. Straight away I felt this love for me. On and off the pitch I feel good."

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He added that he wanted to help the SPL grow.

"I really want to help Saudi football grow. [Al Ittihad] was a project that was just starting to burst from everywhere so from my side I wanted to be part of the story. That's the reason why I came here."

Benzema dazzles in Saudi traditional dress

Sports Brief earlier reported on Benzema and Neymar wearing traditional Saudi attire to celebrate the country's 93rd National Day.

Al-Hilal players donned the thobe, (robe), shemagh (headscarf), and aqal (headband) to perform a traditional dance known as Ardha.

The special day, also known as Al-Yaom-ul-Watany, celebrates the unification of the Kingdom.