Widespread controversy surrounds Karim Benzema's future in the Russian Premier League
Questions and speculations have intensified in Saudi sporting circles regarding the future of French star Karim Benzema, captain of Al-Ittihad, especially with the spread of rumors linking him to a move to their arch-rivals, Al-Hilal. These rumors have sparked widespread debate among fans of both clubs, given their long-standing rivalry for dominance in Saudi football. This debate comes amidst an exceptional transfer season in the Saudi Professional League, which has attracted some of the biggest names in international football, making all news related to these stars a matter of global interest and attention.
Karim Benzema: From Real Madrid to the Dean of Saudi Clubs
Karim Benzema, the Ballon d'Or winner, joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 in a historic transfer that shook the world, arriving from Real Madrid after a career brimming with achievements and titles. His arrival was a huge boost for the Saudi League and Al-Ittihad in particular, where he was immediately given the captain's armband. Al-Ittihad aimed to bolster their attacking prowess and compete strongly for all domestic and continental titles through this signing, capitalizing on Benzema's vast experience and exceptional goal-scoring abilities that have made him one of the world's best strikers over the past decade.
Al-Hilal and its formidable attacking force
On the other hand, Al-Hilal, under the guidance of their Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, already possesses a formidable attacking arsenal, spearheaded by Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has been delivering exceptional performances and tops the team's scoring charts. Alongside him shine other stars such as Brazilians Malcom and Neymar (before his injury), in addition to Salem Al-Dawsari. This technical stability and attacking prowess make the idea of the team desperately needing a new striker of Benzema's caliber unlikely at present, although the transfer market is always full of surprises.
The expected impact of the deal on the Saudi football landscape
If such a deal were to materialize, it would be a true earthquake for Saudi and Asian football. A player of Benzema's caliber moving from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal would not only dramatically bolster the latter's strength but also deliver a significant blow to Al-Ittihad and its fans. Regionally, this transfer would further solidify the dominance of Saudi clubs in the AFC Champions League, while internationally, it would reaffirm the financial appeal and high level of competitiveness of the Saudi Professional League, demonstrating its ability to attract the biggest names in world football.
