The relationship between Karim Benzema and his club, Al-Ittihad, has soured, prompting him to delete his social media account in response to backlash from fans regarding the team’s performance. Currently, the reigning champions of the Saudi Pro League find themselves in seventh place in the points table.
Recently, Benzema slapped the French interior minister with a defamation lawsuit amidst rumors about his potential return to Europe after snubbing club training for weeks. New reports now indicate that his future at the club is uncertain, with such a move indeed being a possibility.
What’s next for Karim Benzema?
Karim Benzema ended his 14 years of association with Real Madrid last summer to join the Saudi Pro League club, concluding his trophy-laden successful spell in Europe. The French star followed in the footsteps of his friend and former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, making the move to the Gulf.
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner was offered an astonishing deal to join Al-Ittihad, alongside other elite European stars playing for the Jeddah club, including his fellow Frenchmen N’Golo Kante and Fabinho, among others. He signed a three-season contract and is being paid $100 million per year in the Middle East.
However, things have not turned out as expected for the 36-year-old. The recent events, including Karim Benzema missing the club’s training sessions for 17 days, have further escalated the situation. Rumors hint that he might join Premier League clubs Manchester United or even Chelsea after just six months with Al-Ittihad.
Reportedly, there is a scheduled meeting between the club and the forward to discuss his future in Jeddah. The club is angered by Benzema’s recent actions. While there is anticipation of a potential loan move to another Saudi club, the prospect of returning to Europe seems complicated, entailing substantial pay cuts.
Why is Al-Ittihad furious with Karim Benzema?
The former Real Madrid star went on vacation during the mid-season break in the Saudi Pro League earlier this month and remained out of contact with club officials. His delayed return to club training resulted in his absence from the club’s Dubai training camp as they prepare to resume their season next month.
Subsequently, Karim Benzema has been banished from the training camp and is training alone, separate from the rest of the squad. This action follows a firm decision by Al-Ittihad boss Marcelo Gallardo regarding his late arrival. The situation remains tense, as both the manager and club are upset with the French forward.
It is said that the striker has failed to live up to expectations, despite scoring 12 goals and providing 5 assists in 20 appearances in all competitions this season. Furthermore, his captaincy role is also being questioned by the fans.
