Karim Benzema arrived in his native Béjaïa, Algeria on Saturday as he looks to re-establish ties with the country of his origin. The former Real Madrid star was welcomed by fans and local officials.
Benzema’s visit to his homeland, which was announced about a week ago has been widely anticipated.
During his stay in Algeria, he will watch the 2026 World Cup qualifier between Algeria and Guinea at the Nelson Mandela stadium on Thursday, June 6.
“I hope they play a good game and win,” said the Al-Ittihad striker.
“It’s my first time in Algeria and in Bejaia, so I’m very happy to be here. I’m going to see my family and share moments with the Algerians, it’s nothing but happiness,” he commented.
Karim Benzema will head to his father’s village, Tighzert, in the Ait Djellil community before travelling to his mother’s hometown in Oran.
Ghani Ouali, mayor of Ait Djellil, told local media “We’re going to give him a warm and popular welcome.”
He is also scheduled to visit his grandfather’s house and pay his respects at the village cemetery.