In the summer of 2023, Karim Benzema made a noteworthy move from Real Madrid, a 14-time Champions League-winning powerhouse, to Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.
The high-profile transfer involved Benzema signing a reported three-year contract valued at an astonishing £172 million per year. However, recent reports suggest that the 36-year-old striker might be facing challenges in adapting to his new environment.
Despite being the poster boy signing for the Saudi Pro League and leading an exodus of notable players from Europe, Benzema’s potential departure from Al Ittihad wouldn’t be straightforward. Any exit would necessitate approval from Al Ittihad’s coach Marcelo Gallardo, sporting director Roman Planes, and even Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport, underscoring the complexity of the situation.
While reports indicate Benzema’s alleged discontent, it’s noteworthy that he hasn’t officially expressed any desire to leave Al Ittihad. Speculation intensified when he returned late from a holiday in Mauritius.
French reports suggested Benzema had requested a ‘temporary’ exit, with Manchester United, Arsenal, and even his former club, Lyon, expressing interest. The rumor mill gained momentum, but Benzema dismissed these claims in an interview with L’Equipe, labeling them as “completely false” and attributing them to media invention.
The financial aspect adds complexity, with Benzema’s astronomical pay potentially complicating any move. This is highlighted by Jordan Henderson terminating his contract at Al Ettifaq to join Ajax.
Amid these rumors, both Manchester United and Arsenal, struggling in their respective Premier League campaigns, could benefit significantly from Benzema’s goal-scoring prowess. United, currently eighth in the table, has faced challenges in finding the net, while Arsenal, despite a recent 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace, has had inconsistencies in their goal-scoring performance.
Benzema’s statistics at Al Ittihad include nine goals and five assists in 15 appearances. However, his team lags significantly in the Saudi Pro League title race, with Al Hilal maintaining an undefeated lead and a considerable 25-point gap over Al Ittihad.
As speculations continue, Benzema’s future remains uncertain, but his denial of exit talks may quiet ongoing rumors, at least for the time being. The potential impact of Benzema’s stay or departure from Al Ittihad looms large, not only for the Saudi Pro League but also for the prospective suitors eyeing the seasoned French striker’s services in the Premier League.
