French striker Karim Benzema, renowned for his prolific career at Real Madrid, is currently facing persistent transfer rumors linking him to Manchester United and Arsenal. Despite reports suggesting his dissatisfaction with Al Ittihad, Benzema denies wanting to leave the Saudi club, emphasizing that such claims are “completely false.”
Benzema, who signed a lucrative three-year deal with Al Ittihad in the summer of 2023, faces challenges if he intends to depart the Middle East. The Saudi Pro League, having attracted European players like Benzema, requires approval from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport, the team’s coach Marcelo Gallardo, and sporting director Roman Planes for any potential departure.
Speculation intensified as Benzema returned late from a vacation, but Al Ittihad remains unaware of any discontent on his part. Recent reports suggested that Benzema requested a “temporary” departure, prompting interest from Manchester United and Arsenal. However, the player dismisses these rumors, describing them as baseless and fueled by the French media.
The situation has created a complex scenario, exemplified by Jordan Henderson leaving Al Ettifaq for Ajax due to Benzema’s substantial salary. While a return to Lyon is considered, the allure of the Premier League intrigues those anticipating Benzema’s impact in England.
Manchester United, currently eighth in the Premier League, seeks offensive improvement with their struggles to score goals. Meanwhile, Arsenal, in contention for the league title, faces scoring challenges despite a recent 5-0 victory. The Gunners’ interest in Benzema arises as they aim to bolster their goal-scoring options, especially with Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka leading the team’s goal charts.
In Al Ittihad, Benzema has contributed nine goals and five assists in 15 games, yet they trail significantly in the Saudi Pro League standings led by Al Hilal. Despite the swirling rumors, Benzema remains committed to dispelling the speculation, emphasizing that he is content with his current situation at Al Ittihad.
