Karim Benzema’s Saudi nightmare hasn’t ended as the striker became even more disappointed and frustrated and is seeking an exit from the league. Benzema has been looking for ways to find his perfect form in the Saudi Pro League, which has proven abortive since he joined, making him look like the problem of his team after the former manager, Nuno was sacked via his influence.
The reunion of former Real Madrid teammates Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in the Saudi Pro League has taken a stark turn. While Ronaldo thrives as the league’s top performer, Benzema finds himself mired in a terrible situation at Al-Ittihad, prompting questions about his future and the impact of his move to the Middle East.
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The obvious contrast between the two players’ experiences was evident on December 26 at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium. The duo shared smiles and pleasantries in the tunnel before kick-off, but their fortunes diverged drastically during the 5-2 victory for Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, where the Portuguese star scored two penalties. Benzema, on the other hand, exited the field with frustration and later deleted his social media accounts, anticipating another wave of criticism.
As Ronaldo, the best player in the Saudi Pro League this season, continues to shine, Benzema has become its biggest disappointment. Speculation about his future intensified after reports suggested he failed to return for training after the league’s winter break. Marca claimed Benzema had gone AWOL, missing training sessions and being dropped from a scheduled mid-season tour of Dubai. He seems to be totally uninterested in the happenings on the pitch and around the club, expressing his disappointment and frustration
This recent episode adds to a series of challenges that have plagued Benzema’s stint with Al-Ittihad. Last season’s top scorer, Abderrazak Hamdallah, contemplated leaving due to Benzema’s arrival, and coach Nuno Espirito Santo reportedly opposed signing the French forward. Nuno’s subsequent sacking amid rumors of personality clashes only heightened the turmoil within the team. It was largely believed that Nuno got sacked as a result of Benzema’s influence which has been a very bad omen for the team and Benzema himself
The arrival of coach Marcelo Gallardo was expected to usher in a positive change, but results on the pitch have been elusive. Al-Ittihad has won just one league game under Gallardo, losing the last three before the winter break. Fans, frustrated with the team’s struggles, now question whether Benzema, once hailed as the club’s most impactful signing, is contributing to their woes. Just maybe, he is the problem.
Benzema’s on-field performance has been under scrutiny, with criticisms ranging from missed penalties to an own goal that cost valuable points. Reports suggest a perceived lack of effort, a striking contrast to his hefty salary, estimated at €100 million per annum. Saudi journalist Waleed Al Farraj commented on the growing rift between Benzema and the public, noting a perceived arrogance and discomfort in his actions. What may be a major challenge for Arteta and his men if he eventually makes a switch to the English club
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He stated: “The rift between Karim and the public grows day by day. He has never made a difference, he plays with arrogance, almost as if to say ‘I’m doing you a favour by being here.’
“When Cristiano Ronaldo arrived last January, he immediately demonstrated professionalism and commitment. Benzema didn’t. It’s as if his team-mates can’t stand him and he himself looks ill at ease.”
The emergence of rumors about Benzema being stranded in Mauritius, concerns about his partner’s unsettled situation, and speculation about a potential loan move to Premier League clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal have fueled the uncertainty surrounding his future. While a transfer may seem unlikely at this stage, what is undeniable is that Benzema’s move to Al-Ittihad has been far from the success anticipated by the club’s president.
From a sporting perspective, Benzema’s presence has destabilized a once-stable squad, raising questions about the compatibility of his playing style within the team’s tactical framework. The Saudi club may regret making Benzema’s deal from Real Madrid. Maybe Arteta should be a bit scared and concerned about this latest Benzema’s record, a repeat at the Emirate may not be favourable for Arsenal if the deal pulls through.
