Al Hilal: Kalidou Koulibaly happy about Karim Benzema’s arrival

After leaving Al-Ittihad, Karim Benzema signed a contract through 2027 with the Saudi Pro League leaders, further strengthening Al-Hilal’s ambitions. The arrival was welcomed by his new teammate, Kalidou Koulibaly.

Karim Benzema opens a new chapter in his career, still in Saudi Arabia but under new colors. After two successful seasons at Al-Ittihad, marked by a Cup–League double in 2025 and solid statistics (54 goals, 17 assists in 83 appearances), the French striker chose to turn the page. In disagreement with his club’s leadership over the terms of a contract extension deemed insufficient, the 2022 Ballon d’Or left the club as a free agent.

Very quickly, Al-Hilal moved into position. Leader of the Saudi Pro League and now coached by Simone Inzaghi, the Riyadh club announced the signing of Benzema until June 2027, with no transfer fee. A resounding coup on the market, both for its sporting impact and for the league’s image.

In the locker room, the enthusiasm is palpable. Kalidou Koulibaly, Al-Hilal’s defensive pillar and recent Africa champion, didn’t hide his satisfaction: “ We had already spoken, and we knew he could help us. He will arrive with enormous motivation. We will do everything to ensure he is in the best possible condition and that he helps us reach our goals.” At 39, Benzema is taking on a prestigious new challenge and intends to remain a major player on the Saudi scene.