The Saudi Pro League clubs’ roadmap of bringing in European stars on massive deals is facing uncertainty as players express dissatisfaction with the league’s atmosphere. Their performance, failing to meet expectations, has prompted a desire among the players to return to Europe after only a brief time.
Karim Benzema, the Al-Ittihad skipper, is among those stars regretting their decision to move to Saudi Arabia. Reportedly, he is exploring options for a ‘temporary’ move away from the Saudi club due to feeling pressured. Amid links to English clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal, Chelsea is also in pursuit.
Karim Benzema seeking move to Chelsea
Recently, Karim Benzema was banished from the club’s training camp and forced to train alone, contributing to a harsh situation in Jeddah. His late reporting to training sessions after vacation has led to a feud between the Ballon d’Or winner and Al-Ittihad boss Marcelo Gallardo, who is upset with his actions.
Benzema wants to leave the Saudi League, following in the footsteps of former Liverpool midfielder Jordon Henderson, who departed the league to join Ajax only six months after his arrival. However, Al-Ittihad’s owners, the Saudi Public Investment Fund, are reluctant to allow him to leave.
Reportedly, Premier League club Chelsea has shown interest in making a move for the former Real Madrid man in January. The club is open to allowing the 36-year-old striker to make a temporary loan move to fellow Saudi clubs or Europe. However, Karim Benzema is keen on a return to Europe.
Presently, Chelsea stands in 12th place in the Premier League points table and is looking to add experienced strikers to their ranks due to a shortage of out-and-out strikers in the squad. Their Senegalese forward, Nicholas Jackson, is away at the AFCON, leaving Armando Broja as the only option.
Interestingly, Chelsea does have the financial power to cover Karim Benzema’s loan wages, which are considerably higher for other clubs.
Update on Karim Benzema’s reported move to Man Utd and Arsenal
Karim Benzema joined Al-Ittihad following a trophy-laden season with the Los Blancos as a free agent last summer in 2023, but is now regretting opting for a big-money move to the Middle East. Despite being one of the best strikers in the Gulf League, the Frenchman has faced scrutiny from fans.
As the January window is about to close, the French forward’s situation remains in doubt, as per earlier reports suggesting a potential move to clubs Manchester United and Arsenal. However, there hasn’t been much development despite speculation, as both clubs aim to bring him to the Premier League.
