After joining Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad, Karim Benzema speaks up.

On Tuesday night, the 35-year-old's relocation to the Middle East was formally announced.

The change follows a 14-year stay with the Spanish champions where he won numerous championships and left behind a massive legacy.

The Frenchman joins Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he referred to as a close friend, and exhibits the advancement of Saudi football.

“Al Ittihad is a new challenge for me. It’s a good league and there are many good players.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is already here, he is a friend who shows that Saudi Arabia is starting to get ahead and I am here to win as I did in Europe,” Benzema said.

The two-year deal that the Ballon d'Or winner signed will pay him a staggering €200 million per year.