Details of Karim Benzema's transfer to Al-Hilal and the jobs provided by the federation
The Saudi sports scene witnessed a dramatic shift with the transfer of veteran French star Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad to their arch-rivals Al-Hilal, a deal that sparked considerable controversy and involved intriguing financial and administrative details. This transfer was more than just a change of players' jerseys; it revealed the enormous logistical and financial burdens clubs bear in attracting world-class players.
Details of the 14 jobs and the benefits provided
Press reports revealed that the departure of the Ballon d'Or winner from Al-Ittihad freed up a massive operating budget previously allocated to the player's well-being and daily living expenses. The club's coffers were relieved of the burden of 14 specialized positions dedicated to Benzema's service, most notably the cost of renting an entire floor in one of the most luxurious five-star hotels overlooking the Red Sea, which had served as the French star's permanent residence.
The list of services for which costs were reduced included a comprehensive security team to ensure privacy and safety, consisting of four specialized security guards who accompanied him and his family around the clock. In addition, the list included a full service staff comprising professional chefs (chef and food preparers), a personal hairdresser, a stylist, a massage therapist, a nutritionist to monitor his precise diet, as well as a personal trainer and a private driver—a complete service package that had previously been draining a significant portion of the club's resources.
Team restructuring and management vision
For his part, Fahad Sand, president of Al-Ittihad Club, explained that the decision was in the best interest of the club, emphasizing that Benzema's departure during the 2026 winter transfer window was a strategic one. Sand indicated that the club benefited financially from this move, allowing the management to redirect resources to address technical weaknesses in the team. The plan had been to sign promising young talents from the under-21 age group, in addition to strengthening the defense with a local or foreign player in preparation for Asian competitions, which has now become possible after easing the financial burden.
Shine instantly in the leader's jersey
On the other hand, Karim Benzema didn't need much time to adapt to his new club, Al-Hilal. After signing a one-and-a-half-year contract, the French star quickly made his mark with the league leaders. In his first notable appearance, he led the team to a resounding 6-0 victory over Al-Akhdoud in the 21st round, scoring a historic hat-trick, including a spectacular backheel goal that won the Goal of the Round award. This performance reaffirmed his continued goal-scoring prowess and his significant impact on Saudi football, whether previously with Al-Ittihad or now with Al-Hilal.
