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The CEO of Al-Hilal threw fuel on the fire of That of Cristiano Ronaldo discontent by claiming that Karim Benzema has joined the “most powerful and popular club in Saudi Arabia”.
The transfer of the former French striker from Al-Ittihad, with whom Benzema could not agree on a contract extension, to Al-Hilal caused a huge controversy in Saudi football.
Ronaldo is believed to be particularly unhappy that his former Real Madrid teammate has been allowed to join Al-Hilal, who face Portugal’s Al-Nassr in the Pro League title race.
Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr are majority owned by the PIF (Saudi Public Investment Fund), as are Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli. Reports suggest that Ronaldo believes the PIF showed favoritism by allowing such a famous player to move from one of their clubs to another.
The 40-year-old showed his displeasure by making himself unavailable for Al-Nassr’s match against Al-Riyadh on Monday – a match that his team ultimately won 1-0 to stay one point behind Al-Hilal – and there is now widespread speculation that he may be considering leaving Saudi Arabia in June.
Al-Hilal delighted to have Benzema on board
Al-Hilal have no such problems, however, having signed Benzema, who is the current Saudi Pro League Player of the Year, on a free transfer and handed him a lucrative 18-month contract.
Their CEO, Esteve Calzada, said he was not interested in Ronaldo’s strike – “you’ll have to ask him” was his response – but he was delighted that Benzema was now on board.
He told El Larguero: “We had a unique opportunity because we were looking for a striker and Benzema is Ballon d’Or and has spectacular talent. Plus, he doesn’t need to adapt to our league. He was entrusted to us and we are already seeing the commercial benefits.”
He added: “Although it is a signing that meets sporting needs, we have worked to get the most out of it. I am not surprised that Benzema chose Al-Hilal because it is the most powerful and popular club in Saudi Arabia.”
Al-Nassr are next in action against Al-Ittihad on Friday and there will be plenty of attention on the team sheets to see if Ronaldo plays.
