Karim Benzema will depart Real Madrid at the end of the season after 14 years, the Spanish club said on Sunday morning.

According to Reuters, the 35-year-old has agreed to terms with reigning Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad – led by former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo – and will sign a two-year contract.

The former France international joined Real from Lyon in 2009 and has appeared in 657 games, scoring 353 goals.

Benzema has appeared in 42 games in all competitions, scoring 30 goals and assisted on six others for the Los Blancos in the 2022/2023 season.

He did not play in Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Sevilla on May 27, but he could make one more appearance in the club’s last league encounter of the season against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday night.

“Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club,” the Spanish club said in a statement.

“Real Madrid would like to show its gratitude and affection for who is already one of our greatest legends.

“Karim Benzema’s career at Real Madrid has been an example of donduct and professionalism, and he has represented the values ​​of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future.

“Madridistas and all the fans around the world have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great icons of our club and one of the great legends of world football.

“Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and he wish him and all his family the best in this new phase of his life.

“Next Tuesday, June 6, at 12:00pm, an institutional act of homage and farewell to Karim Benzema will take place at Real Madrid Sport City, which will be attended by our president Florentino Pérez.”