Karim Benzema was ready to return to Olympique Lyonnais for the 2026/27 season without taking a salary, but his ambassador contract with the Saudi Pro League prevented the move from going through.
The 38-year-old forward became a free agent after his Al-Hilal contract was terminated by mutual consent. Lyon considered bringing their former academy player back during the summer transfer window.
According to French outlet L'Équipe, Benzema was willing to play for free because of his strong connection to Lyon. The forward came through the club's academy and made his professional debut for Lyon before joining Real Madrid in 2009.
Why Lyon Pursued Karim Benzema Return Despite Age Concerns
Lyon's management explored bringing Benzema back to Groupama Stadium because the club considered the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner as an experienced option for their attack for the 2026/27 season.
Benzema scored 66 goals in 148 appearances for Lyon between 2005 and 2009 before joining Real Madrid for €35 million. He left Lyon before Groupama Stadium opened in 2016, so he never played a competitive match at the club's current home ground.
The striker had just won the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Hilal, along with two domestic cups, and was named the league's MVP for the 2025/26 season.
Lyon's sporting directors also considered his movement, technical ability and experience when assessing a possible return. However, the club also had to consider his age and physical condition after several seasons in Saudi Arabia.
How Saudi Pro League Ambassador Contract Prevented Lyon Transfer
Benzema's ambassador contract with the Saudi Pro League runs until 2030 and includes restrictions that prevent him from registering with clubs outside Saudi Arabia. The contract was originally linked to Saudi Arabia's wider ambitions in football and its Vision 2030 programme.
Saudi Arabia later shifted its World Cup focus from 2030 to 2034 and was eventually awarded the 2034 tournament. The agreement also includes promotional commitments involving Benzema's presence and image.
Leaving Saudi Arabia to play elsewhere would therefore have significant financial consequences for the striker, with reports putting the remaining value of the contract at more than 330 million Saudi riyals.
Benzema ultimately chose to honour his Saudi commitment, leaving his proposed return to Lyon unable to go ahead. Saudi Pro League officials have not publicly commented on whether exceptions to ambassador contracts can be negotiated for specific cases.
The ambassador programme includes several high-profile former players who represent the league at international events and promotional activities.
What Karim Benzema's Future Holds After Failed Lyon Move
Benzema remains a free agent with no official announcement yet regarding his next move. The 38-year-old has not publicly commented on whether he plans to continue playing or retire.
His representatives have also not issued a statement about his future. A return to Lyon is no longer possible. The French club will therefore have to look at other options for their attack ahead of the rest of the 2026/27 season.
Benzema's legacy at Lyon remains secure regardless of whether he returns for a final playing stint at the club.
