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Karim Benzema's current deal at Al-Ittihad ends in 2026 but he could retire early
Former club Real Madrid already have a role lined up for the 36-year-old
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Published: 07:12 EDT, 16 December 2024 | Updated: 07:16 EDT, 16 December 2024

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Karim Benzema is reportedly considering retiring at the end of the season - and could make a shock return to Real Madrid.

Benzema, 36, now plies his trade for Al-Ittihad but become one of the best strikers in the world during a hugely decorated 14-year spell at Real from 2009 to 2023.

After enduring a diccult campaign in the Middle East last season due to a plethora of off-field problems, the Frenchman has returned to form this term.

He has scored 10 goals in 10 Saudi Pro League appearances under compatriot Laurent Blanc, with the striker just two goals behind top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic and level with Cristiano Ronaldo.

However, Benzema has begun to consider his options for the future and could end his playing career, according to Relevo.

The striker, who is paid a whopping £86million a year, has a contract with Al-ittihad until 2026 and the club expect him to honour it.

Karim Benzema is reportedly considering retirement at the end of the current season

The Frenchman, 36, now plies his trade for Al-Ittihad and his contract runs until 2026

Real Madrid are keen to recruit their former striker Benzema as a club ambassador

However, the Saudi side would not be unhappy if he was to hand up his boots as it would free them from a huge financial commitment.

The outlet also reports that Benzema has a future career in mind already, with Real keen to recruit him as a club ambassador as they appreciate his links to the Middle East.

It is said that Los Blancos have an eye on that part of the world and they see Benzema as a market attraction.

The Frenchman scored 354 goals in 648 appearances in the Spanish capital, winning 25 trophies along the way, including five Champions League titles.

He also won the prestigious Ballon d'Or in 2022 on the back of a season where he scored 44 goals in 46 games.

If he returns to Real Madrid he would become the latest former players to become an ambassador, with Roberto Carlos currently the club's represe. tative in Asia and Oceania

Real Madrid Karim Benzema