Speculation is mounting about the future of French star Karim Benzema with Saudi club Al-Ittihad, as the global network ESPN confirmed that the Ballon d'Or winner is seriously looking for an opportunity to move to another club, rejecting an offer presented to him by the management of “Al-Ameed” to renew his contract, which extends until the end of the 2026 season.
Background to the deal and challenges of adapting
Benzema arrived in Jeddah in the summer of 2023 in a high-profile transfer, becoming one of the biggest international names to join the Saudi Professional League as part of the Kingdom's ambitious sports transformation project. His move came after a legendary career with Real Madrid, and he carried with him high hopes from Al-Ittihad fans that he would lead the team to domestic and continental dominance. However, the first few months were not easy for the French star, as he faced challenges adapting to his new environment, in addition to a series of injuries that affected his playing time. Furthermore, multiple press reports indicated strained relationships with coaches, from Nuno Espírito Santo to the current manager, Marcelo Gallardo, adding another layer of complexity to his situation at the club.
Potential impact on the club and the league
Benzema's potential departure is not merely a technical loss for Al-Ittihad; it carries broader implications. Domestically, the club would lose one of its most potent attacking weapons and key marketing figures, potentially impacting its title aspirations. Furthermore, in the Saudi Professional League, the departure of a star of Benzema's caliber after just one season raises questions about the league's ability to absorb and retain top international players in the long term, posing a challenge to the ambitious sporting project's image.
The absence is causing controversy, and the future is uncertain
Benzema's continued absence from the team's lineup has intensified the rumors, as he did not participate in the recent match against Al-Fateh in the 19th round of the league. This has led many to believe that his time with the Jeddah club is nearing its end. While the player's agents continue to explore potential offers in Europe or elsewhere, the future of one of the world's best strikers remains uncertain, awaiting the outcome of the upcoming transfer window, which will be crucial in determining his next destination.
