Real Madrid have announced that French forward, Karim Benzema, will leave the club a year early, ending speculations about the striker’s future.
Benzema signed for the club in 2009 and has become their second all-time top goalscorer behind only Cristiano Ronaldo.
His contract was due to expire next season, but a statement by the club confirmed that Benzema will leave this summer instead.
The Spanish giants said, “Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club.
“Real Madrid wants to show its gratitude and all its affection for who is already one of our greatest legends.
Benzema established himself as a key player alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale in the vaunted “BBC” attacking trident before developing into the team’s leader when the Portuguese striker left in 2018.
Benzema has lifted 24 trophies with Madrid, including five Champions Leagues, four La Liga titles, and three Copas del Rey, and is the current holder of the Ballon d’Or for the world’s best player.
