Karim Benzema agrees to leave Real Madrid

Karim Benzema will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season. The club have confirmed this in a statement in which they thank him for his services throughout his time as a Real Madrid player: 

"Real Madrid C. F. and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to put an end to his brilliant and unforgettable time as a player at our club.

. Real Madrid would like to show its gratitude and affection to the man who is already one of our greatest legends".

The French striker leaves Real Madrid after fourteen seasons in which he has won absolutely everything and has been an indispensable part of the club. Just a few days ago, he was asked about his future but did not want to reveal anything. 

Today, club and player have agreed to part ways after more than a glorious decade plus spell. He still had a year left on his contract, but Benzema is now opting for a new adventure. He will say goodbye this evening in the match against Athletic Club at the Bernabeu.

Benzema has won 25 titles, a record number for Real Madrid: 5 European Cups, 5 Club World Cups, 4 European Super Cups, 4 Leagues, 3 King's Cups and 4 Spanish Super Cups. In addition, the Frenchman is the fifth most-capped player with 647 appearances, and is Real Madrid's second all-time top scorer with 353 goals.