Real Madrid have confirmed that French footballer, Karim Benzema will be leaving the club at the end of the season after a remarkable 14-year tenure during which he won multiple trophies.

The club in a statement said: “Real Madrid Football Club and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to bring his brilliant and unforgettable time as a player at our club to a close.

“Real Madrid would like to show our gratitude and affection to a player who is already one of our greatest legends.

“Karim Benzema’s career at Real Madrid has been a shining example of conduct and professionalism, and he has represented the values of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future.
Madridistas and all the fans all over the world alike have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great icons of our club and one of the great legends of world football.”

The statement added: “Real Madrid is and always will be his home, and we wish him and all his family all the best in this new stage of his life.
Next Tuesday 6 June, at 12:00pm (CEST), an institutional act of homage and farewell to Karim Benzema will take place at Real Madrid Sport City, which will be attended by our president, Florentino Perez.”

Recall that Al-Ittihad offered Benzema €400 million (£346 million/$439 million) over two years, contrary to rumors that he would put off the move and stay at the Bernabeu. It was claimed earlier this week that Benzema plans to move to Al-Ittihad.