Karim Benzema's Net Worth and Salary
Karim Benzema, the French professional soccer sensation, boasts a remarkable net worth of $200 million. Celebrated as one of the most prolific strikers in Real Madrid's storied history, Benzema’s journey is a tapestry of exceptional goalscoring prowess and attributes such as vision and playmaking. Over his career, he has formed dynamic partnerships, most notably with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite his club success, Benzema's reputation in France has been tainted by various scandals. His Algerian heritage and controversies have marred his relationship with the French national team and its fans.
Groundbreaking Saudi Contract
In June 2023, Benzema signed a staggering 2-year, $436 million contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad. This historic deal, one of the largest contracts in sports history, secured him an annual salary of $214,534,727. This marked a major shift after his 14-year golden era at Real Madrid, where he clinched multiple LaLiga and Champions League titles. Benzema's signing is a pivotal element in Saudi Arabia’s strategy to boost its football league's revenue through the privatization of top clubs.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born on December 19, 1987, in Lyon, France, Karim Mostafa Benzema’s roots trace back to Algeria. Growing up in a devout Muslim family, he has adhered to the practice of fasting during Ramadan throughout his life. Benzema's tryst with soccer began at the tender age of eight.
Career Highlights
His talent was evident early on when he scored two goals against Lyon’s youth team in a U-10 match, earning a spot in their youth academy. He later joined Lyon's senior squad in 2004, eventually signing a three-year contract, and debuting in the Champions League.
Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images
Benzema's rise was meteoric, becoming the league's top scorer and earning a new lucrative contract with Lyon in 2008. His prowess caught the eye of Real Madrid, who acquired him for 35 million euros in 2009. Although initially a substitute, Benzema proved his worth, eventually becoming a key player.
Benzema's journey at Real Madrid saw ups and downs, including a period of friction under Jose Mourinho in 2010. Despite challenges, he emerged stronger, evidenced by his significant goal hauls and record-breaking performances. Benzema's link-up with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale in the 2013-14 season, forming a lethal attacking trio, is one of his career highlights.
National Team Career
Benzema debuted for France in major tournaments like Euro 2008 and played in the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012. However, controversies led to his exclusion from Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup. In 2019, his frustration with the French Football Federation culminated in hints of a possible shift to the Algerian national team.
Personal Life and Relationships
Karim Benzema is married to Cora Gauthier, with whom he shares two children.
Lack of Support in France
Benzema's relationship with French fans has been complex. His preference for Algeria and reluctance to sing the French national anthem contributed to his strained rapport with the public.
Legal Issues
Benzema’s career has seen significant legal troubles. In 2010, allegations involving a prostitution ring and a minor were dropped due to a lack of evidence. In 2015, he was embroiled in a blackmail case concerning his teammate Mathieu Valbuena, which led to his suspension from the French national team.
