Last summer, Karim Benzema chose to be part of a high-profile Saudi Pro League project by making a sensational transfer to the Saudi Arabian champions, Al-Ittihad, and thereby concluding his glorious trophy-laden European career. He joined forces with fellow stars like N’Golo Kanté and Fabinho in Jeddah.
Just six months after his illustrious move, Benzema was linked with a return to Europe to join Premier League clubs on loan during the January transfer window. However, complications with his contract halted any progress. Reportedly, he has fallen out of favor with Al-Ittihad after failing to follow instructions.
Karim Benzema leaves Al-Ittihad training session
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema finds his future with his Saudi Pro League club in serious doubt. The forward missed weeks of the club’s training after extending his vacation during the mid-season break, arriving 17 days late, which upset both the club hierarchy and the manager earlier.
After hopes of moving out of the club were dashed, the Frenchman rejoined the club’s training on Monday. Following a brief group session, Benzema was immediately directed by Al-Ittihad boss Marcelo Gallardo to train alone due to his disciplinary action last month and concerns that his fitness was not up to the mark.
However, the 36-year-old striker defied the manager’s orders and, visibly angered and furious, stormed out of the training facility in front of his teammates, according to a report by the Spanish outlet Marca. This action by Benzema has further intensified the feud between him and the boss.
Subsequently, the former Real Madrid star was not included in the match squad for their recent Saudi Pro League match against Al-Tai. Even though the team was short of substitutes, he was not called up. Nonetheless, they comfortably won the game 3-0 in the absence of their skipper.
Karim Benzema’s nightmare spell at AI-Ittihad
Karim Benzema’s adventure in the Middle East has not unfolded as he anticipated. Despite attempting to secure a loan move away from the Gulf League, he has been compelled to stay, adding to his discontent.
Furthermore, his disciplinary issues ranging from missing a training session to concerns over his role as club captain, behavior, and underperformance have aggravated the situation.
Now, after refusing to follow the manager’s orders, his position in the pecking order is uncertain, and he is no longer considered a key player by the Argentine coach.
The striker has made 20 appearances for the Saudi Pro League champions, netting 12 goals and providing 5 assists across all competitions this season, since arriving in the summer.
