Karim Benzema Reveals True Feelings About Cristiano Ronaldo After Frosty Saudi Pro League Reunion

Karim Benzema has finally addressed the conversation dominating the Saudi football scene: his true feelings toward Cristiano Ronaldo after their widely discussed “frosty” reunion. Cameras caught the former Real Madrid stars barely interacting before Al-Ittihad’s clash with Al-Nassr, sparking rumors of tension between two legends who once terrorized Europe together.

But according to Benzema, the narrative fans built is far from reality.

The pair spent years forming one of the deadliest attacking trios in football history as part of Real Madrid’s iconic BBC era — Bale, Benzema, Cristiano. Together, they lifted La Liga titles, Champions League trophies, and shattered goal-scoring records that may never be touched again. Today, they’re rivals in the Saudi Pro League, each carrying superstar status and immense responsibility for their respective clubs.

Their on-pitch reunion looked cold, but Benzema insists that the warmth happened where the cameras couldn’t reach. Speaking to AS, he explained:
“We talked in the locker room. We hugged, we talked… On the pitch, we can’t or shouldn’t do it again. There’s a lot of respect. We don’t need to show anything in front of the TV. We’re good. We’ve both learned from each other.”

It’s a reminder that football isn’t reality TV. Sometimes, the real moments happen away from the flashing lights.

Benzema also spoke about the importance of players like himself and Ronaldo in helping the Saudi Pro League evolve. He believes their presence serves as both inspiration and education for the next generation of Saudi footballers.
“Saudi Arabia needs players like Cristiano, or like me. We teach local players what it takes so they can grow. It’s a country that’s opening up.”

The Frenchman, now 37, remains a force in front of goal. With 46 goals in 75 appearances for Al-Ittihad, he shows no signs of slowing down. He maintains that he didn’t come to Saudi to wind down his career — he came to compete, grow, and contribute.
“When I signed, I had just won the Ballon d’Or. It wasn’t the end of my career. I wanted to keep enjoying football. Every time I step on the pitch, I want people to feel that emotion.”

For now, both Ronaldo and Benzema remain rivals. They chase trophies, headlines, and bragging rights. But behind the rivalry lies a foundation of respect forged in Madrid and carried into a new era in the Middle East.