Al-Hilal’s Karim Benzema (38) was close to signing a return to Olympique Lyonnais this summer, according to reports in L’Équipe.

Approached by the management of the Rhône-based club, where he came through the ranks, the Ballon d’Or winner had expressed enthusiasm at the prospect of once again donning the Rouge & Bleu colours. So much so that he was prepared to play there without receiving any remuneration.

However, despite mutual interest from all parties, the deal could not be finalised, as Benzema had not yet been released from his contract with Al-Hilal at that time – something he has since done. His role as an ambassador for the Saudi league, which runs until 2030 and which the striker was keen to honour, also proved to be an obstacle to a potential move to another country.

Benzema, although still very attached to OL, the club of his life, is therefore unlikely to end his career there, having helped the Rhône-based side win four league titles before his departure for Real Madrid in 2009.

GFFN | Léo Aschi