Karim Benzema has hailed N’Golo Kante as the best box-to-box midfielder in world football after being joined by his compatriot in Saudi Arabia.
The Chelsea star has been locked in negotiations over the past few weeks regarding a free transfer to Al-Ittihad at the end of his contract at Stamford Bridge. His switch has now been confirmed.
Kante, now 32, has put pen to paper on a four-year contract with the Saudi side and it has been reported that he could earn around £86m per year. As part of the club’s announcement, Al-Ittihad shared a video message from one of their other big-name recruits, Karim Benzema.
Speaking from a plane, the former Real Madrid striker said: “Hi, N’Golo, one time told you that you were the best player box-to-box in the world. Now, I’m happy to play with you again. And of course with the best team in Saudi. See you in Jeddah.”
The two-time Premier League winner then replied and expressed his delight at the deal. Kante said: “Thank you, Karim. Nice to see you again. Thank you for your words.
“I’m very pleased to play with you, the best player in the world. I’m very excited to play with the Tigers in front of the fans at Al Jawhara.”
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Benzema was not the only one to offer Kante some kind words after his move was confirmed. Chelsea’s co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: "N’Golo’s impact and influence during his time at Chelsea cannot be overstated.
“His tireless performances in midfield contributed to several trophy wins and has guaranteed him a place in the club’s history. We wish him well as he embarks on the next chapter in his career.”
Kante leaves Chelsea having lifted six pieces of silverware during his time with the club since a move from Leicester. That includes the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup and more.
He might not be the only Chelsea player to complete a move to Saudi Arabia this summer. Moroccan winger Hakim Ziyech is reportedly on the verge of a switch to Al-Nassr.
Edouard Mendy is also closing in on an agreement with Al-Ahli, whilst Kalidou Koulibaly looks set to sign for Al-Hilal just a year after arriving in West London from Italian giants Napoli.
That influx of players would be just the latest chapter in what has been a lucrative year in the Saudi Pro League. Cristiano Ronaldo became one of the first world stars to move to the Gulf State and has been joined by Portugal teammate Ruben Neves.
A vast array of players including Saul Niguez, Bernardo Silva and Heung Min-Son have also all been linked.
