In the summer of 2023, Karim Benzema made a notable move from Real Madrid to Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, signing a reported three-year contract worth £172 million per year. Recent reports suggest the 36-year-old striker might be unsettled in his new environment, but any departure would require authorization from Al Ittihad’s coach Marcelo Gallardo, sporting director Roman Planes, and even Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport.
Despite rumors of discontent, Benzema has not officially expressed a desire to leave, although speculations gained momentum when he returned late from a holiday in Mauritius. French sources mentioned a ‘temporary’ exit request, and both Manchester United and Arsenal showed interest. Lyon, his former club, was also linked.
Benzema dismissed these rumors in an interview with L’Equipe, calling them “completely false” and attributing them to media invention. The financial aspect complicates matters, with his high salary potentially hindering any move, as seen with Jordan Henderson terminating his contract at Al Ettifaq to join Ajax.
Amidst rumors, Manchester United and Arsenal, struggling in the Premier League, could benefit from Benzema’s goal-scoring prowess. United, currently eighth, faces challenges in scoring, while Arsenal, despite recent success, has had inconsistencies. Benzema’s stats at Al Ittihad include nine goals and five assists in 15 appearances, but his team lags behind in the Saudi Pro League.
As speculations persist, Benzema’s future is uncertain, but his denial of exit talks may calm rumors, for now. The potential impact of his stay or departure looms large for both the Saudi Pro League and Premier League suitors eyeing the experienced French striker’s services.
