Karim Benzema breaks his silence amid Ronaldo's strike in Saudi Arabia

Karim Benzema has officially addressed the controversial move to Al Hilal, while Cristiano Ronaldo is said to have reacted intensely and gone on strike, causing a stir in the Saudi Pro League.

Striker Karim Benzema has publicly commented on social media after the disputed transfer from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, a move believed to have provoked a fierce reaction from Cristiano Ronaldo and even led to a “strike” at Al Nassr.

Benzema completed his transfer to Al Hilal on the final day of the transfer window on February 2nd, concluding an impressive spell at Al Ittihad with 54 goals and 17 assists since leaving Real Madrid in 2023. The arrival of the 38-year-old striker strengthens Al Hilal’s lead in the Saudi Pro League, where they hold a one-point advantage over Ronaldo’s Al Nassr after 19 rounds.

According to Sky News, this deal caused Ronaldo to express dissatisfaction and reportedly refuse to play in Al Nassr’s 1-0 victory over Al Riyadh on Monday. The root cause is the Portuguese superstar’s feeling that the resource allocation among clubs owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is unfair. PIF currently owns 75% of shares in Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad.

In the 2025/26 season, Al Hilal is the biggest spender in the Saudi Pro League with around £166.5 million, while Al Nassr ranks fourth with £89.8 million, behind Al-Qadsiah and NEOM. Al Ittihad is fifth in investment. Beyond transfers, Ronaldo’s continued inability to secure a domestic title in the Middle East is also believed to have increased his frustration.

Despite the surrounding controversy, Benzema remains ready to play for Al Hilal and is expected to significantly boost the blue team’s championship chances. After the transfer announcement, the former Real Madrid star bid an emotional farewell to Al Ittihad:

“Al Ittihad, a chapter has closed, but respect and gratitude will always remain. Thank you to the club, coaching staff, teammates, and especially the fans for the warm welcome, love, and incredible energy every day. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn this jersey and for all we experienced together. Wishing all the best for the future. Respect. KB9.”

According to the schedule, Al Hilal will return to the pitch on February 5th to face Al Akhdoud, while Al Nassr will meet Al Ittihad the following day, in a match expected to draw significant attention from Saudi Pro League supporters.