Real Madrid legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have been competing in the Saudi Pro League. Only one lifted silverware, and it was the Frenchman.
Once a Madridista, always a Madridista. This is the case for most players who have the privilege of donning the royal white jersey. Indeed, it's an honor that is carried even after leaving the Spanish capital.
Now, the Saudi Pro League is home to a few Real Madrid legends. At the very top of the pile, there is Cristiano Ronaldo, the poster boy for the emerging league. However, he's challenged by another Real Madrid hall of famer, in Karim Benzema.
Real Madrid legend wins his 9th league title
There are still a few games to be played in the Saudi Pro League, but the champions have already been elected. Al-Ittihad, Karim Benzema's team, has won the 2024-25 season, leaving their competition in the mud.
Cristiano Ronaldo is on track to finish the Saudi Pro League with the most number of goals, 23 currently. However, Karim Benzema has the potential to creep up on him here too, with 21 goals himself.
In the Pro League, there isn't a Benzema vs Ronaldo rivalry dynamic. This could never be forced, considering every fan knows the deep love between the two former Real brothers.
However, it was certainly interesting from a Real Madrid perspective to watch how this season panned out. Ultimately, it was Karim Benzema who added to his illustrious trophy cabinet.
Since the beginning of his career, Benzema has won nine league titles, including his most recent addition. This makes it nine league titles across two different continents.
Karim Benzema's league titles - By the numbers
Club | League titles won |
|---|---|
Lyon | 2004/05, 2005/06, 2006/07, 2007/08 |
Real Madrid | 2011/12, 2016/17, 2019/20, 2021/22 |
Al-Ittihad | 2024/25 |
Karim Benzema is a serial winner. This is no secret. No matter what he touches, he turns it into gold. It's just great to see him achieving success, even outside of Real Madrid.