Karim Benzema is urging Al-Ittihad to push even further as the Roshn Saudi League champions begin their title defense in the 2025-26 season.
Al-Ittihad capped a dominant run last season by clinching the league title with an eight-point cushion and then securing a historic double by beating Al-Qadsiah 3-1 in the Kings Cup final. Benzema played a pivotal role, scoring twice in the cup final and finishing with a standout return in all competitions—25 goals in total, including 21 league goals and nine assists in the Roshn Saudi League. His efforts helped him earn the Saudi Pro League Player of the Season award.
Reflecting on the previous campaign, Benzema highlighted the primacy of team success: “I’m very happy to have won the league and the cup, which were very important. For me the most important thing is collective trophies. Then, to win an individual award, as I always say, it’s thanks to all my teammates at the club. So, thank you to them, and thank you to the fans as well.” He added that the trust shown in him was a driving force and that the hard work paid off, with more to come as they chase further trophies.
The French forward also reserved high praise for Al-Ittihad’s supporters, saying they are “the best” and that their backing—whether at home or away—helps the team lift performances. He stressed the importance of the “12th man” and the special bond with fans, vowing to keep delivering on the pitch.
With confidence from last season’s success, Benzema acknowledged the challenge ahead as Al-Ittihad prepare for their season-opener away to Al-Okhdood. The Roshn Saudi League is now more competitive than ever as clubs across the Kingdom recruit top talent, and Al-Ittihad must balance domestic duties with a return to the AFC Champions League Elite.
Asked how the team can reach new heights, Benzema urged a focus on the moments that propelled them forward last year, while recognizing tougher opponents and stronger squads ahead. “You just have to look at what we did last year, take everything we did—all the moments that helped us win those trophies—and achieve even more this year. Because the opponents will be tougher. Teams have strengthened. Now, every team wants to beat Al-Ittihad. We need confidence and ambition. We’ll fight until the end and we’ll do everything to win more trophies, which are the most important thing in football. And above all, to bring joy to everyone.”
Since swapping Real Madrid for Jeddah in 2023, Benzema has witnessed the Saudi league rise on the world stage, with Al-Hilal reaching the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals this summer, including a statement win over Manchester City. He believes the level of football in Saudi is climbing year by year, aided by the presence of European players and coaches, and he’s optimistic about a brighter future for the sport in the Kingdom.
Additional value and context:
– The upcoming season will see Al-Ittihad juggle domestic responsibilities with continental competition, potentially testing depth and squad management.
– Benzema’s leadership and proven track record in big matches could be a key factor as the league intensifies its rivalry landscape.
– The broader trend of rising investment and international talent in Saudi football could fuel continued growth and help develop local players and coaches.
Summary: Karim Benzema’s recent reflections after a trophy-laden spell with Al-Ittihad set a confident tone for the new campaign. With league and cup titles fueling morale, the champions aim to extend their dominance amid a more competitive RSL and ongoing participation in the AFC Champions League Elite, all while reinforcing Saudi football’s rising profile on the world stage. Positive momentum and a strong belief in the squad’s potential underpin a hopeful outlook for the season ahead.