Karim Benzema’s future at Al-Ittihad is uncertain after the French striker reportedly felt insulted by a Saudi Pro League contract extension offer and refused to playa match. This has raised talk of a possible move away from the Kingdom.
Karim Benzema’s future at Al-Ittihad appears to be in serious doubt after the French striker reportedly felt “insulted” by a contract extension offer from the Saudi Pro League. Reports suggest that he has decided to stop playing for the club until the situation is resolved.
According to reports from French outlet L’Équipe, Benzema and his representatives were unhappy with the extension proposal made by the league, which employs him directly. The offer was described as “insulting” by Benzema’s team, who felt that accepting it would be like “playing for free.”
Benzema had hoped for a significantly improved deal after leading Al-Ittihad to a historic league and cup double last season as captain. His form this season has also been strong, with the former Real Madrid striker scoring 16 goals in 21 matches across league and cup competitions.
Despite this, the offer sent by Saudi Pro League director of football Michael Emenalo, did not meet his expectations. According to Foot Mercato, Benzema was furious after receiving the offer and has since been contacted by several clubs in Europe, raising speculation about a possible return.
Benzema refuses to play?
ESPN reported that Benzema felt disrespected by the extension and has removed himself from the first-team setup. He has begun training away from the main group and was left out of Al-Ittihad’s squad for their 2-2 draw against Al Fateh on Thursday.
Head coach Sergio Conceicao avoided addressing the issue when asked about Benzema’s absence. “You should go to the management with those questions. I’m only here to train the players, officiate matches, and win trophies,” Conceicao said.
However, he was full of praise for the French striker, adding, “Karim is a fantastic professional. He’s a fantastic player who scored 13 goals in 17 matches under my guidance. I’m proud to be his manager.”
Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in 2023 in one of the biggest transfers in world football. He is currently the third-highest paid footballer globally, earning around £85 million per year. Only Lionel Messi at Inter Miami and Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr earn more, with Ronaldo’s salary standing far ahead of both.
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner has enjoyed a legendary career so far, scoring 503 goals in 967 club matches and 37 goals in 97 appearances for France. If the Saudi Pro League fails to keep Benzema in the league, he is more likely to be snatched by another team in Europe or America.
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