Karim Benzema’s time at Al-Ittihad Jeddah appears to be edging toward an uneasy conclusion as tensions escalate between the French striker and club officials over a disputed contract renewal proposal.
Reports suggest the relationship has deteriorated sharply in recent hours following the presentation of an official offer to extend Benzema’s stay, a move that has been poorly received by the former Real Madrid captain. According to French outlet L’Equipe, Benzema has taken the decision to stop featuring in Al-Ittihad matches for an indefinite period, despite earlier claims from Saudi sources that his absence was due to fatigue.
Benzema’s current deal with Al-Ittihad is set to expire at the end of the ongoing season, with the club having assured him last summer that a renewal would be arranged. However, the first formal proposal reportedly arrived only days before the close of the winter transfer window, a delay that is said to have intensified frustrations within the player’s camp.
While the financial details of the offer were not disclosed, L’Equipe revealed that individuals close to Benzema described it as “humiliating” and “disrespectful,” suggesting that the structure of the deal would see him effectively play “for free,” excluding compensation tied to image rights.
Further reports from Foot Mercato claim that Benzema has opted to distance himself from matchday involvement, with Al-Ittihad officials powerless to resolve the situation due to the Saudi Pro League Association holding final authority as the player’s employer.
The situation presents a major setback for head coach Sergio Conceicao, who now faces the prospect of losing his captain and one of the central figures behind last season’s league and cup double. Benzema is expected to miss Thursday’s Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Fateh, as well as Sunday’s fixture versus Al-Najma, while his availability for the highly anticipated meeting with Al-Nassr on February 6 remains uncertain.
The standoff contrasts sharply with Benzema’s earlier remarks in an interview with L’Equipe, where he stated, “I am part of the project, and I am in the right place,” signalling his intention to commit to a long-term future in Saudi Arabia.
Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 after an illustrious spell at Real Madrid and has since made 83 appearances across all competitions, scoring 54 goals and providing 17 assists.
In the current campaign alone, he has featured in 21 matches and found the net 16 times, though he is yet to register an assist.
