It has been officially confirmed by Real Madrid that Karim Benzema is leaving the club this summer, with the striker departing the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu after 14 seasons representing Los Blancos.
This Sunday's home match against Athletic Club will be Benzema's final game for the club, as an era ends at Real Madrid.
His exit follows those of Marco Asensio, Mariano and Eden Hazard, all of which were announced on Saturday.
Real Madrid's Benzema statement
"Real Madrid and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to bring to an end to his brilliant and unforgettable time as a player at our club," read a club statement put out on Sunday.
"Real Madrid would like to show its gratitude and affection to the man who is already one of our greatest legends.
"Karim Benzema joined our club in 2009, at just 21 years of age, and has been a fundamental player in this golden era of our history.
"During the 14 seasons in which he has defended our badge and our shirt, he has won 25 titles, a record number for Real Madrid: five European Cups, five Club World Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, four LaLiga titles, three Copa del Rey titles and four Spanish Super Cups.
"Karim Benzema is the current Ballon d'Or and UEFA Player of the Year, as well as being included in the FIFA FIFPRO XI and winning the Pichichi Trophy 2022.
"These awards were received after one of the most extraordinary seasons in our history, especially in the Champions League, in which our captain produced memorable performances that contributed to Real Madrid winning the 14th European Cup in Paris, while he was the top scorer of this competition with 15 goals.
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