Overview
- Multiple outlets, citing Fabrizio Romano and Saudi reports, said on Sunday that Benzema and Al‑Hilal have mutually terminated his contract, making the 38‑year‑old a free agent.
- Reports give differing settlement totals, with figures cited between roughly €17m and €25m, and coverage says the payout is tied up in a complex mix of a club salary and a separate Saudi promotional contract.
- People close to Benzema and media commentators say he is considering retirement as an option, though no formal retirement announcement has been made and offers to continue playing have been reported as unconfirmed.
- Al‑Hilal have already moved to rebuild their attack, officially signing Ollie Watkins and adding other Premier League talents to create a faster forward line and to replace the foreign slot vacated by Benzema.
- The episode highlights wider questions about spending and governance in Saudi football, since dual contracts, large settlements and rapid squad turnover could prompt closer regulatory and financial scrutiny and affect club planning and fans.