'Internet is NOT reality!' - Benzema lashes out at Madrid exit rumours

James Shearman

• Updated: 1 Jun 2023 19:10 BST
• 3 min read

Karim Benzema has lashed out at rumours that he will be leaving Real Madrid in the summer.

Benzema has been heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, where he would join former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, but that appears to be untrue.

"Speak to Madrid fans? Speak about what? Why speak of the future if I’m in Madrid," he said at the Marca Leyenda ceremony, via Fabrizio Romano.

"Who’s speaking is internet. The reality is NOT internet."

READ: Real Madrid to sign relegated Premier League FLOP as Benzema replacement

Benzema added that it is a pleasure to play for Los Blancos and he appreciates the support he receives.

"I am very proud of my career. I remember when I signed here at Real… I was a kid, with a dream to play for Real Madrid one day.

"I know how much Real Madrid fans love me. I feel that when I’m on the pitch. I give my best for them, always.

"I always say that we play with 11 on the pitch but also with a crucial factor, Real Madrid fans."

Benzema's Saudi Arabia offer

According to the Independent, Benzema is ‘seriously considering’ a package from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, worth €100 million a year.

That said, Ronaldo is reported to be earning double that amount at Al-Nassr – who he joined at the beginning of this year, following a controversial exit from Manchester United.

But even that is a drop in the ocean compared to the €600m Messi could take home annually were he to join Al-Hilal.