Karim Benzema considering retirement at the end of 2024 season

According to Spanish newspaper Relevo, 36-year-old Al Ittihad Club striker and French international Karim Benzema is considering retiring from football at the end of this season.

According to those familiar with the situation, Benzema has not made a definitive choice but is seriously considering retirement owing to weariness from his daily routine.

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Relevo noted, “As players near the end of their careers, the daily grind becomes more challenging. Beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch, the mental and physical demands of football often take their toll.”

The report also stated that Karim Benzema’s difficult start at Al Ittihad had contributed to his mental weariness.

However, the same sources stated that Benzema is still totally dedicated to the club’s project.
Currently, he is the team’s leading scorer with 10 goals in 11 matches and is tied for second place in the league’s scoring table with Cristiano Ronaldo, trailing only Aleksandar Mitrović by two goals.

While enjoying a successful season, Benzema is apparently thinking about his long-term future.
According to the Spanish media, the player has internally indicated that his career may be coming to an end.
Relevo also speculated that Benzema may continue his career until 2026, when his current contract expires, rather than retiring in 2025.

However, Al Ittihad administration views a potential 2025 retirement positively, as it would free up around €100 million in pay obligations while allowing the player to continue in a lighter, ambassadorial position related to the club and league.
After retirement, Karim Benzema is anticipated to serve as Real Madrid’s global ambassador, notably in the Arab region.
The club is actively targeting the Middle Eastern market, which it sees as a source of untapped potential.
Real Madrid’s commercial staff has been keeping a close eye on the region, winning sponsorships from companies such as the Saudi Investment Bank and Fly Emirates during their recent tour to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup.