Ancelloti didn’t allow me to address our fans but this is now the right and perfect time for me to speak, because i feel Madrid fans deserve an explanation”- Benzema finally reveals the hidden truth why he left Madrid to join Al Littihad

In a recent press conference, former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema broke his silence about the circumstances surrounding his unexpected departure from the club to join Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. The legendary striker, who served Real Madrid with distinction for 14 seasons, addressed what he called “the hidden truth” about his exit, pointing to a dispute over his contract renewal as the core reason.

Benzema, who was pivotal in Real Madrid’s success with five Champions League titles and numerous other honors, expressed that he had not been given the opportunity to directly address the fans at the time of his departure. “Ancelotti didn’t allow me to address our fans,” Benzema revealed. “But this is now the right and perfect time for me to speak, because I feel Madrid fans deserve an explanation.”

The French striker explained that while he was fully committed to continuing his career at Real Madrid, he felt sidelined by unresolved issues in his contract negotiations. According to Benzema, the discussions around his contract renewal had reached an impasse, leaving him feeling disrespected and ultimately leading to his decision to move on.

“I wanted to stay and continue my journey at Madrid,” he stated, “but I couldn’t ignore that there was a lack of clarity and mutual understanding in the renewal process. It was not about the money but respect and my value to the club.”

The contract situation reportedly made Benzema feel like his contributions to the club were undervalued, especially after a season where he had won the Ballon d’Or. For a player of his caliber, who had been with Real Madrid through thick and thin, this treatment felt like a breaking point.

With the end of his time at Real Madrid drawing near, Benzema had to consider new options. Al-Ittihad’s offer came at an ideal time, giving him an opportunity to play in a fresh environment where his contributions would be respected and valued. The Saudi Pro League’s ambitious project, which has been attracting top talents from Europe, offered Benzema a new chapter in his storied career.

In addressing his decision to join Al-Ittihad, Benzema said, “It was important to me to be somewhere I felt wanted, somewhere I could continue to make a difference. Al-Ittihad showed that faith in me and made me feel appreciated.”

While he may no longer be wearing the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid, Benzema was emotional as he addressed the fans. “To the Madrid fans, you will always be in my heart. I’m grateful for every moment, every cheer, every banner that was held for me. I wish things could have ended differently, but I will always be proud of the memories we created together.”

As he embarks on his new journey with Al-Ittihad, Benzema’s statement sheds light on the often-complex world of football contract negotiations, and reminds fans of the importance of respect, loyalty, and transparency between clubs and their players.

Karim Benzema’s recent revelations about his departure from Real Madrid highlight the emotional and often turbulent side of high-level football. Despite his remarkable 14-year legacy, including five Champions League titles, a Ballon d’Or, and countless memories with the Madrid fans, Benzema’s exit was less than ideal. According to Benzema, his relationship with the club soured over unresolved contract issues, making him feel undervalued.

The striker emphasized that his decision wasn’t driven by financial factors but rather by a desire for respect and recognition for his contributions. The breakdown in renewal talks, along with his inability to address the fans directly, reportedly stemmed from issues with both Real Madrid’s management and coach Carlo Ancelotti. Benzema’s description of feeling sidelined and disrespected resonates as a reminder of the challenges players face, even at elite clubs.

Ultimately, Al-Ittihad’s offer aligned with Benzema’s desire to feel valued and respected, marking a new beginning in Saudi Arabia, where he can pursue a fresh challenge with a team eager to support him. His heartfelt message to Madrid fans shows his enduring affection for them and his wish that his departure could have been handled differently. Benzema’s story underscores the complex nature of football relationships, where both loyalty and clarity play vital roles.