I gave up my salary wages to join Arsenal just because of this particular Arsenal player,we had good experience together back then in international camp and I want to strengthen the relationship more”, Kareem Benzema finally reveals who made His transfer to Emirate happened
In a stunning revelation during a pre-match press conference, football icon Karim Benzema has opened up about the real reason behind his surprising decision to join Arsenal — and it turns out, it was all because of one particular player in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
The former Real Madrid striker, who completed a shock transfer to the Emirates Stadium earlier this year, admitted that his long-standing friendship with an Arsenal star was the driving force behind the move, even to the point where he was willing to make a financial sacrifice to make it happen.
“I gave up my salary wages to join Arsenal just because of this particular Arsenal player,” Benzema told reporters. “We had a good experience together back then in international camp and I want to strengthen that relationship more.”
While Benzema stopped short of revealing the name outright at first, it quickly became clear through follow-up questions and subtle hints that the player in question is William Saliba, Arsenal’s highly-rated French defender.
The two shared time together during France’s international camps, and according to Benzema, a mutual respect and friendship blossomed during that period — one that made a lasting impact on the veteran striker.
“Saliba is an incredible professional, but beyond football, he’s a great human being,” Benzema added. “We talked a lot during international duty, about football, life, family. I told him one day I’d love to play alongside him at club level, and when the chance came, I didn’t hesitate — not even for the money.”
Benzema’s arrival at Arsenal sent shockwaves through the football world, with many questioning how the Gunners managed to pull off the deal. Now, the former Ballon d’Or winner has made it clear that relationships off the pitch can sometimes be more powerful than financial incentives.
Mikel Arteta also commented on the revelation, praising the bond between his two French stars and the positive influence Benzema has brought to the squad.
“Karim’s presence here is massive, not just for his quality on the pitch, but for the leadership and mentorship he offers to the younger players, including William,” Arteta said.
As Arsenal gear up for the decisive stages of their Champions League and Premier League campaigns, the growing chemistry between Benzema and Saliba could prove vital in their quest for silverware.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, football isn’t just about contracts and transfers — it’s about friendships, respect, and the beautiful game bringing people together.