Tensions have escalated within Al-Ittihad, the reigning Saudi Professional League champions, after reliable media reports revealed that French midfielder N'Golo Kanté refused to participate in Tuesday's team training session. This unexpected move is seen as an escalation of the player's protest against the lack of clarity surrounding his future and the club's refusal to allow him to transfer to Turkish side Fenerbahçe during the current winter transfer window.
Background to the deal and the challenges of the current season
N'Golo Kanté's arrival at Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 was a sensational signing, not only for the Jeddah-based club but for the entire Saudi league. The player, whose record includes winning the 2018 World Cup, the UEFA Champions League, and the English Premier League, was a huge asset to the league's ambitious project of attracting top international stars. His arrival, alongside Karim Benzema and Fabinho, bolstered Al-Ittihad's ambitions to retain their title and compete strongly in Asia. However, the team has faced significant challenges this season, with a noticeable decline in results, leading to technical and administrative changes and increasing the pressure on the players and coaching staff.
The impact of the crisis and its potential repercussions
Reliable journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed the news via his X-rated account, stating, "N'Golo Kanté refused to train with Al-Ittihad today and is still seeking a move to Fenerbahçe." He added that Kanté's departure would be a "major blow to Al-Ittihad," especially after the club failed to finalize the signing of Portuguese midfielder Gustavo Sá, leaving the team in a real predicament regarding his potential absence. The crisis is compounded by the uncertainty surrounding fellow star Karim Benzema, which has sparked widespread debate about his future with the club. The departure of a player of Kanté's caliber just months after his arrival could negatively impact the club's sporting project and its ability to retain its star players, potentially damaging the reputation of the Saudi league as an attractive destination for international talent in the long term.
An uncertain future and attempts at containment
Currently, Al-Ittihad's management is working hard to contain the situation and convince Kanté to reconsider his decision and stay with the team until at least the end of the season. Officials understand that losing a key midfielder mid-season would have serious consequences for the team's remaining ambitions. The next few days will be crucial in determining the French star's future, and whether he will continue his journey with Al-Ittihad or pack his bags for the Turkish league in a deal that would undoubtedly generate considerable controversy.
