Karim Benzema receives a grand welcome in Saudi Arabia

Jeddah: Former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema was officially introduced as an Al-Ittihad player in Saudi Arabia, just a day after the country failed to sign Lionel Messi in Al-Nassr.              

Benzema emerged onto the stage adorned in Al-Ittihad’s iconic black-yellow kit, proudly displaying the number nine on his back.

The grand welcome ceremony unfolded at the magnificent 60,000-seater stadium in Jeddah, with a colossal ‘KB9’ shining brightly, fireworks, and flame-throwers in honor of Karim.

"Assalam o Alikum!" (Hello), greeted the 35-year-old Benzema, as he addressed the roaring crowd before triumphantly raising the prestigious Ballon d'Or trophy, which he had claimed last year.

Benzema's arrival follows Saudi Arabia's relentless pursuit of footballing giants, with Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo already joining the Saudi Pro League.

Sources close to the negotiations suggest that the league has a list of high-profile targets.

Benzema, who boasts an impressive record of five Champions League titles, expressed his hunger for more silverware with his new team.

"I'm hungry, I want to play and showcase my skills on the pitch, and most importantly, elevate this club to its rightful place at the top," stated the Frenchman during a brief press conference.

Supporters, donning the colors of Al-Ittihad, created a festive atmosphere at the unveiling, waving yellow flags and displaying placards expressing their admiration for Benzema, including "Benzema 9" and "Je t'aime Benzema" (I love you, Benzema - in French).

Thank you Jeddah, from the bottom of my heart. Tonight was a very special moment that i will never forget 💛🇸🇦#alhamdulillah #benzema2ittihad #here2inspireKSA #nueve pic.twitter.com/y0Prde6rDM

— Karim Benzema (@Benzema) June 8, 2023