Karim Benzema’s journey in Saudi Arabia has mirrored a classic soccer redemption arc — from maligned megastar to title-winning talisman.
Karim Benzema’s journey in Saudi Arabia has mirrored a classic soccer redemption arc — from maligned megastar to title-winning talisman. Once the subject of widespread discontent among fans and internal tensions within Al-Ittihad, Benzema has risen to become the emblem of their 2024-25 Saudi Pro League triumph. His transformation wasn’t just about goals — though he delivered 21 of them — but about rebuilding trust, influence, and identity.
After arriving with great fanfare from Real Madrid in 2023, Benzema’s first year in Jeddah was anything but smooth. Struggling with injuries and criticized for an apparent lack of engagement, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner faced growing hostility. The situation worsened with former coach Marcelo Gallardo, whose falling-out with Benzema reportedly contributed to his sacking.
“Gallardo wanted to bench Karim, and for us, that was a red line,” club president Loay Nazer revealed, explaining the club’s decision to part ways with the Argentine tactician. “Karim is integral to our vision.”
New regime and a ew Benzema
The summer proved pivotal. Benzema played a quiet but powerful role in shaping the club’s direction, reportedly influencing the arrival of Laurent Blanc as head coach and key signings like Houssem Aouar and Moussa Diaby. With so much sway behind the scenes, the pressure on the Frenchman to deliver was immense.
And deliver he did.
In 28 league appearances, Benzema notched 21 goals and nine assists, directly contributing to 30 goals. His performances weren’t just statistically impressive — they came when it mattered. From late winners to moments of inspiration in tight games, the Frenchman became the spine of a side that morphed from fractured to formidable.
Sealing the title in style — In front of Ronaldo’s shadow
On Matchday 32, Al-Ittihad clinched the title with a 3-1 comeback win over Al-Raed at King Abdullah Sports City. Though Benzema missed the game through injury, he watched from the stands as his teammates completed the mission. After an early scare — Al-Raed scored in the 9th minute through Oumar Gonzalez — the People’s Club responded with goals from Steven Bergwijn, Danilo Pereira, and Abdulrahman Al Obood to seal the match and the league.
With this win, Al-Ittihad amassed 77 points, establishing a nine-point gap over Al-Hilal, which proved unassailable due to a superior head-to-head record. The triumph was particularly symbolic. In dethroning Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, Benzema achieved something he never managed at Real Madrid — “taking Ronaldo’s crown” in the same domestic league. Despite Ronaldo finishing the season as top scorer with 23 goals, Benzema’s trophy and leadership offered the ultimate reply in their long-standing silent rivalry.
Karim Benzema trophies list 2025
Lyon (2004–2009)
- Ligue 1: 2004–05, 2006–07
- Coupe de France: 2007–08
- Trophée des Champions: 2005, 2006, 2007
Real Madrid (2009–2023)
- La Liga: 2011–12, 2016–17, 2019–20, 2021–22, 2022–23
- Copa del Rey: 2010–11, 2013–14
- Supercopa de España: 2012, 2017, 2019–20, 2021–22, 2022–23
- UEFA Champions League: 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2021–22
- UEFA Super Cup: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2022
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018
Al-Ittihad (2023–Present)
- Saudi Pro League: 2024–25
France National Team
- UEFA Nations League: 2020–21
Individual Honors (Selected)
- Ballon d’Or: 2022
- UEFA Champions League Top Scorer: 2021–22
- Multiple top scorer awards in La Liga and Champions League seasons
- French Player of the Year: Several times
