Benzema calls Al-Hilal 'Real Madrid in Asia' amid Ronaldo anger

Karim Benzema has compared his new club Al-Hilal to Real Madrid in Asia after completing a controversial transfer from rivals Al-Ittihad. 'It's similar, like Real Madrid in Asia,' he said, adding he was happy to be part of a team with a good history, fans and players.

The move followed a breakdown with Al-Ittihad after Benzema said he felt 'disrespected' by the terms offered for a contract extension. Reports said the proposal, managed centrally by the Saudi Pro League for PIF-owned clubs, would have effectively seen him play for free, according to ESPN, and that the transfer was orchestrated by the PIF to keep one of the league's marquee stars within the competition.

Cristiano Ronaldo was reportedly angered by the transfer and is said to have refused to play in protest, though Record reported he trained as normal.

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