Karim Benzema Envisions Long-Term Future in Saudi Arabia Post-Retirement

Karim Benzema, French football star, plans to remain in Saudi Arabia after retiring, focusing on soccer development. The Ballon d'Or winner, currently playing for Al-Ittihad, aims for team success and praises their strong pre-season preparation. With notable players in the Saudi Pro League, Benzema is optimistic about the future.

Karim Benzema, the French international football icon, recently revealed his plans to settle in Saudi Arabia post-retirement. In an interview with Sony Sports Network, Benzema expressed his commitment to helping develop the sport in the country. He stated, "After my career, I plan to stay in Saudi Arabia and work on various future projects, particularly in soccer, to help develop the sport further each year."

The 36-year-old Ballon d'Or winner is currently making significant strides with Al-Ittihad. According to Sony Sports Network, Benzema has contributed nine goals and seven assists in 21 appearances during his debut season in the Saudi Pro League. Reflecting on the upcoming season, Benzema shared, "This season marks a fresh chapter for the club. I've done everything possible to strengthen the team and make us better and stronger. I'm confident about our prospects, and now it's time for us to fight together for trophies," quoted Sony Sports Network.

Benzema also lauded the team's intense pre-season efforts, saying, "The preseason went exceptionally well. We trained twice a day for three weeks, which was intense. We demonstrated our readiness in the penultimate match against Inter Milan, a strong team, confirming that we can compete at a high level. Today, we are prepared." Reflecting on his long-standing passion for football, he added, "I've felt this pressure since I was eight years old when I first started playing for a professional club. Over time, it has transformed into ambition. For this upcoming season, I view it not as pressure but as ambition. This mindset drives me to excel and help my team win, with the support of my teammates." Benzema acknowledged the crucial role fans play, saying, "I believe the fans are like the twelfth man on the field. Here, they are fantastic, and this season, I'm sure they will be proud of us," Sony Sports Network reported.

The Saudi Pro League boasts a lineup of football superstars, among them Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, and Sadio Mane, enhancing its competitive edge. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)