What Real Madrid gained from Benzema's departure to Al-Ittihad

Karim Benzema's transfer to Saudi Arabian team Al-Ittihad captured attention earlier this summer, becoming the second high-profile transfer to Saudi Arabia following his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema was close to renewing his contract with Real Madrid before Al-Ittihad presented a lucrative offer, leading him to join the club in a free transfer. However, according to Romain Molina, Saudi Arabia paid a small transfer fee to Real Madrid despite the player's contract being set to expire this summer.

Apparently, the country convinced Real Madrid not to make a big effort to renew Benzema by offering them financial compensation. It would be unfair to say that the Spanish club did not try to retain the player, as coach Carlo Ancelotti wanted to keep the services of the French forward.

Benzema played a crucial role in Real Madrid's transition plan in the attacking line. The club intended for him to continue scoring goals in Europe until 2024 when Los Blancos planned to make significant investments in players like Kylian Mbappé or Erling Haaland.

<br/>They are seeking a replacement

With Benzema's departure this summer, Real Madrid is now in search of a replacement in the market. They have signed Joselu from Espanyol, but the former Stoke City player is seen more as a substitute for Mariano Díaz, who is also leaving the club.