Karim Benzema’s next move unclear as Al-Ittihad rule out summer return

Al-Ittihad have no plans to re-sign Karim Benzema, despite reports suggesting the French striker could return to the club during the current summer transfer window, according to a source inside the Saudi club.

Benzema is reportedly close to reaching a financial settlement with Al-Hilal after relations between the player and the club reached an impasse. His failure to deliver the expected performances, combined with Al-Hilal’s signing of England striker Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa, has increased uncertainty over his future.

However, a source at Al-Ittihad told Kooora that speculation over a reunion with Benzema was unfounded and that the club was not considering bringing him back.

“Al-Ittihad are currently considering signing a new foreign winger after completing all the details regarding the departure of Frenchman Moussa Diaby to German club Bayer Leverkusen,” the source said.

The source also said German manager Jens Wissing was convinced by the attacking options available to him, specifically Morocco forward Youssef En-Nesyri and Nigeria striker George Ilenikhena, and intended to rely on the pair in the coming period.

Benzema is currently experiencing a difficult spell at Al-Hilal. The veteran forward had wanted to remain with the club, but Italian manager Simone Inzaghi does not want him to continue with the team.

The 38-year-old’s position has become uncertain only months after he moved to Al-Hilal following a breakdown in relations with Al-Ittihad. Benzema reached an impasse with Al-Ittihad’s management in January 2026 and his contract was terminated, paving the way for his move to Al-Hilal.

His performances at Al-Hilal have not matched expectations, despite producing notable statistics. Benzema has made 16 appearances for the club, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists.

The concern, according to the report, is not primarily his output but his level in the major matches in which Al-Hilal needed him most.

Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 after ending his historic spell with Real Madrid. He helped the club win both the Saudi Pro League title and the King’s Cup during the 2024-25 season.

Across his time with Al-Ittihad, Benzema played 87 matches in domestic and continental competitions, as well as the Arab championship. He scored 57 goals and created 14 more during that period.

Despite those achievements, the club’s current priority is understood to be strengthening its attacking options with a new foreign winger rather than pursuing a return for Benzema.

For now, Benzema’s future remains unresolved, with Al-Hilal reportedly unwilling to continue with him and Al-Ittihad dismissing the possibility of a second spell.