French striker Karim Benzema could leave Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal this summer after the team began considering terminating his contract. The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner arrived in Saudi Arabia just six months ago and is under contract until 2027.
Despite delivering solid performances on the pitch, Benzema's relationship with Al-Hilal's Italian manager Simone Inzaghi is reportedly strained. Al-Hilal is also seeking to clear foreign player roster spots following a trophueless 2025-2026 season. The club may agree to end the French forward's contract early and pay him financial compensation to complete the parting.
Potential return to Olympique Lyonnais
Speculation has emerged regarding a potential return to Olympique Lyonnais, the French club where Benzema began his professional career. However, a move back to Lyon appears nearly impossible because the French side's finances are severely restricted.
Lyon could receive a significant financial boost if Belgian winger Malik Fofana leaves during the final days of the transfer window. Italian journalist and transfer market specialist Nicolo Schira reported that AS Roma and Galatasaray have both submitted 40 million euro offers for Fofana. Although Fofana plays a different position than Benzema, Lyon would still need to recruit a replacement if the winger leaves.
Benzema previously addressed the possibility of returning to Lyon in December during an interview with L'Equipe, offering a very measured response. He later shut the door on playing for Lyon again during a podcast appearance with the rapper Rohff. Benzema said he could not return to Lyon as a player, adding that while he might work for the club after retiring, a comeback on the pitch was off the table.
French national team prospects and future options
Benzema, who led Real Madrid to Champions League glory in the 2022-2023 season, has shown little inclination to return to European football. The striker has favored the climate and financial rewards offered in the Gulf region.
His primary motivation to return to Europe could center on Zinedine Zidane. If his former Real Madrid coach takes charge of the French national team, Benzema might be tempted to seek a recall to the national squad. To convince Zidane to select him, Benzema would likely need to perform at the highest level in European football once again.
