Karim Benzema's Real Madrid exit 'a surprise,' says Carlo Ancelotti

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti said Karim Benzema's decision to leave the club was a "surprise for everyone" with the Frenchman almost certainly set to sign for Saudi Arabia champions Al Ittihad.

Benzema’s departure was announced by the Spanish giants hours before the striker netted for the final time in Real’s last game of the season on Sunday night, a penalty equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao that clinched second place in La Liga.

It brought down the curtain on a glittering career at Real Madrid for Benzema, who joined the club for €41 million from French club Lyon in July 2009.

His goal against Athletic was his 354th in 648 appearances for Real, making him the club's second highest scorer of all time behind Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema is the most decorated player in Real Madrid's history, winning 25 major trophies including four La Ligas, five Champions Leagues, three Copa del Reys and five Club World Cup titles in his 14 years in Spain.

Ancelotti told a press conference: “His departure was a surprise for everyone, but you have to understand it. It was a last-minute decision. Yesterday he trained normally and today he made this decision.

“We understand it. I spoke to him this morning and he said that he was leaving and I understood it. He has done very well with me in these four years and also at the club. For that all my thanks.

“He has thought it through and his decision is part of the transition of this club, which continues and will continue next year. We have time to think about what we have to do. We will have a competitive squad next year.

“I am sending him off knowing that I have coached one of the best players in the world and one of the best forwards. He is a very kind, humble and serious