Saudi club Al-Hilal confirms departure of striker Karim Benzema

Saudi club Al-Hilal officially announced the departure of French striker Karim Benzema, ending his contract by mutual agreement. The club said the decision was made by the board of directors chaired by Prince Nawaf bin Saad and that the cost of the contract termination was covered by Prince Al-Walid bin Talal. Al-Hilal thanked Prince Al-Walid bin Talal for his continued support, saying his contributions, which the club described as historic, had helped Al-Hilal pursue its objectives and maintain its competitive strength. Earlier reports had said the 38-year-old Benzema had ended his contract with Al-Hilal by mutual consent, giving him free-agent status before the close of the summer transfer window. The French forward had worn the Al-Hilal shirt for roughly six months before his departure was made official.