The 38-year-old French striker has stepped away from Al Ittihad’s senior squad and has been training on his own since Thursday, signaling growing uncertainty around his future at the club.
Despite his absence, Al Ittihad were able to grind out a 2–2 draw against Al Fateh in Thursday’s Saudi Pro League encounter. Saleh Al-Shehri was handed the responsibility of leading the attack in place of Karim Benzema and made an immediate impact, opening the scoring in the 25th minute. However, the dropped points meant Al Ittihad remain sixth in the league table, a position that falls short of expectations for a side packed with star power.
Benzema’s situation has become increasingly complicated as his current contract is due to expire this summer. Sources close to the matter suggest that the extension being discussed by the Saudi Pro League — which centrally manages contracts for marquee players at clubs backed by the Public Investment Fund — would significantly reduce his financial package. The proposal would reportedly see the former Ballon d’Or winner continue playing under terms that offer only limited compensation, a condition that has raised serious concerns within his camp.
The ex-Real Madrid captain enjoyed a legendary spell in Spain, lifting 25 major trophies during his time at the Bernabéu. Those honors included four La Liga titles, three domestic cup triumphs and five UEFA Champions League crowns, cementing his status as one of the club’s greatest forwards. While his influence at Al Ittihad has not always matched expectations, Benzema has still delivered a respectable return this season, scoring eight goals in 14 league appearances.
According to sources, the Frenchman is now carefully assessing all possible options ahead of the summer, with no final decision yet made on whether he will extend his stay in Saudi Arabia or seek a new challenge elsewhere.
Uncertainty is not limited to Benzema alone. Fellow French international Moussa Diaby is also believed to be contemplating an exit from the club, adding to the sense of instability surrounding Al Ittihad’s squad.
At the same time, another high-profile French star could soon be on the move. N’Golo Kanté is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with Turkish giants Fenerbahçe. The midfielder’s contract is also set to expire this summer after three years in the Saudi Pro League. Reports indicate that Al Ittihad are currently in talks with Fenerbahçe over a potential transfer fee, as the club is keen to avoid losing Kanté on a free and hopes to secure some form of financial return before his deal runs out.
