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Ex-Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has explained his reasons for moving to Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad.
Karim Benzema decided to end his 14-year association with Real Madrid by moving to Saudi Arabia over the summer.
Benzema enjoyed a hugely successful time in Spain, Spain, making 648 appearances, scoring 354 goals, and providing 165 assists across all competitions for Real Madrid.
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Benzema opens up on Saudi move
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Speaking on his move, (via Times of India), Benzema said:
"I am very happy and proud with everything I have done and won with Real Madrid, but I think for me it was a good time to try something new in my life after everything I had already won in Madrid."
The 35-year-old also added that being in Mecca and living in a Muslim country played an exceptional role in his decision to move.
"As a Muslim, when you are in Mecca you feel at peace. It’s an exceptional place.
"Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country. They welcomed me with open arms and I felt loved immediately."
Benzema has been his usual self, scoring and assisting goals while making the adjustment to playing in a different system.
In the seven appearances the ex-Lyon player has made so far since he moved to Al-Ittihad, he has scored three goals and assisted two more.
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