Karim Benzema is expected to clarify his next move shortly after ending his contract with Al-Hilal by mutual consent.
The 38-year-old France striker is now a free agent and can sign for any club, with his future reportedly set to become clearer in the coming days.
French journalist Bertrand Latour said during the programme Late Football Club that Benzema would soon bring an end to the uncertainty surrounding the next stage of his career.
“We will know Karim Benzema’s future very soon,” Latour said.
Benzema’s departure from Al-Hilal brings an end to a spell that lasted only half a season. The club signed him from Al-Ittihad during the most recent winter transfer window, and the former Real Madrid striker made an immediate statistical contribution in the Saudi Pro League.
He scored nine goals and provided two assists in 10 league appearances for Al-Hilal.
Despite his short stay, Benzema remains one of the most decorated players of his generation. He won the Ballon d’Or in 2022 after a prolific period with Real Madrid and is now approaching what could be the final major decision of his professional career.
A return to Europe currently appears unlikely, including a possible move back to Olympique Lyonnais, the club where he developed as a player. However, his next destination has not yet been confirmed and several possibilities remain open.
Benzema could choose to continue playing in Saudi Arabia, where he has spent the majority of his recent career, or move to Major League Soccer in the United States for a new experience.
The Frenchman has apparently not yet decided whether to retire from football. His status as a free agent means he is able to assess his options without needing a transfer agreement between clubs, but he is expected to make a decision soon.
That choice could determine the setting for the final significant challenge of Benzema’s career, after a period that has included success with Olympique Lyonnais, Real Madrid, Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal.
For now, the only clear development is that his time with Al-Hilal is over. The identity of the club that could represent the next chapter remains unknown, although an announcement is expected shortly.
