**Zinedine Zidane's Former Player, Benzema, Suffers Reduced Playing Time at Al Hilal**
The French football legend Zinedine Zidane has been closely associated with the Spanish club Real Madrid for over two decades, and his impact on the team is undeniable. However, recent developments in the transfer market have seen him take up a new role as the manager of Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia’s second-division side.
In a statement to Sportskeeda, Benzema revealed that he will be spending less time playing compared to his previous career. He expressed his gratitude towards Real Madrid for providing him with a platform to showcase his skills and contribute to their success. "I am grateful to Real Madrid for giving me the opportunity to play for them for so long," he said. "However, I believe it's important to move on and pursue other opportunities."
Benzema’s decision to leave Real Madrid came after several years of negotiations regarding his future. The club had offered him a lucrative contract extension but ultimately decided against renewing it. This led to speculation about his potential departure, which finally materialized when he was appointed as Al Hilal’s manager.
Al Hilal is a relatively young club with ambitions to compete at the highest level of Arabian football. Under Benzema’s guidance, they aim to build a strong squad and challenge for promotion to the higher divisions. The former striker’s experience and leadership should prove invaluable to the club.
While Benzema’s reduced playing time may seem like a setback for some fans, his transition into management offers a fresh perspective and the chance to make a positive impact on the club’s fortunes. As a coach, he will bring a wealth of knowledge and tactical insights gained from his illustrious career at Real Madrid.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, will continue to mourn the loss of one of its most iconic players. Zidane’s influence on the sport cannot be overstated, and his contributions to both the club and the wider world of football will be remembered for generations to come.
As Benzema prepares to embark on his new journey as Al Hilal’s manager, fans can look forward to seeing how he navigates the challenges ahead and whether he can help his young squad achieve their goals. Whether he succeeds or not, one thing is certain – Zinedine Zidane will always be remembered as one of the greatest footballers of all time.