Karim Benzema's Future: Options After Al-Hilal Exit

Karim Benzema is edging towards the Al-Hilal exit door as the summer window ticks down, but his next destination remains wide open.

The France legend has three realistic paths in front of him. The strongest, for now, keeps him in Saudi Arabia. A return to Al-Ittihad, where he previously led the line, is on the table, as is a move to Al-Shabab in the coming weeks, according to "AS".

Benzema only arrived at Al-Hilal in the last winter window. The project was supposed to be long term. Instead, his stay already looks like a brief chapter. The club’s hierarchy are in active talks to terminate his contract before deadline day, clearing the way for his next move.

He may be 38, but he is not ready to walk away from the game. "AS" report that Benzema has no intention of retiring right now. "Marca", though, leave a small crack in the door, suggesting retirement has not been completely ruled out. Every scenario stays alive.

One thing does seem settled: a European comeback is off the table, at least for the moment. Fabrizio Romano reports that Benzema has ruled out a return to European football, a stance that effectively kills off the romantic idea of a late-career reunion with Lyon, the club most strongly linked with him in recent months.

If he does not stay in Saudi Arabia, the United States looms as the standout alternative. A move to the American league is viewed as the clearest option outside the Gulf, while separate reports continue to float the possibility of a spell in the Scottish league.

Saudi, America, Scotland, or the unthinkable step of calling time on a glittering career — Benzema’s next decision will define how, and where, one of his generation’s great forwards signs off.