Karim Benzema involved in heated interview amid Cristiano Ronaldo's anger over Al-Hilal transfer

Benzema's move to Al-Hilal has sparked controversy, with Cristiano Ronaldo furious that the deal was sanctioned.

Ronaldo feels Saudi chiefs haven't sufficiently backed Al-Nassr when compared to their fierce rivals, with the Portugal international's team making just one signing in the winter transfer window.

Such is the 41-year-old's anger that he even went on strike earlier this week. Reports say he could do the same tonight when Al-Nassr face Al-Ittihad.

Benzema flourished in the spotlight last night, with the 38-year-old scoring three goals in his first 64 minutes for his new employers.

However, after the game, the former Real Madrid and Lyon marksman was involved in a fiery exchange with a journalist.

Benzema was asked about his decision to leave Al-Ittihad, but snapped and urged the reporter in question to ask him about the match instead.

"Do you want to talk about the game or do you want to talk about that? Talk about the game," said the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner.

"It was a nice performance. I feel good. With these kind of players on this team, we play and fight together."

The journalist then responded: "Do you mean they [Al Hilal players] helped you more than Al Ittihad players?"

Benzema again fired back, saying: "I didn't say that. I said I feel good - it's different."

Another question then followed that left the football legend seething.

"Why didn't you say goodbye to the Al Ittihad players?" the striker was asked.

Benzema fumed: "What? You know? You know? Ask them."

Al-Hilal's victory means they're three points clear of Al-Ahli at the top of the Saudi Pro League table, with Al-Nassr four back.

Meanwhile, regarding Ronaldo, the Saudi Pro League have released a statement condemning the forward's actions earlier this week.

“The Saudi Pro League is structured around a simple principle: every club operates independently under the same rules.

“Clubs have their own boards, their own executives and their own football leadership.

“Decisions on recruitment, spending and strategy sit with those clubs, within a financial framework designed to ensure sustainability and competitive balance. That framework applies equally across the league.”

They added: “Cristiano has been fully engaged with Al-Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club’s growth and ambition. Like any elite competitor, he wants to win.

“But no individual – however significant – determines decisions beyond their own club."