Al Ittihad’s shock loss of Karim Benzema to Al Hilal has left the Jeddah-based club scrambling to find a high-profile replacement. Since the announcement, the Saudi Pro League side has explored multiple options to fill the void left by the Real Madrid legend.
Among the names linked are Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski, both players capable of transforming Al Ittihad’s attacking line.
Al Ittihad’s pressing need for a striker
Benzema joined Al Ittihad in 2023 and played a pivotal role in securing the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League title. Yet the club’s defence of the trophy has been underwhelming, with Al Ittihad currently sixth in the league with 34 points from 19 matches, 13 points behind leaders Al Hilal.
The loss of a proven goalscorer like Benzema has highlighted the team’s dependence on a central striker who can lead the line and finish chances.
While Al Ittihad did sign Moroccan international Youssef En-Nesyri from Fenerbahce during the winter window, the forward has not matched Benzema’s impact.
The club has struggled to find the kind of reliable goal threat that Benzema provided, and even with young wingers such as Moussa Diaby and Roger Fernandes, the team lacks a true centre-forward to anchor the attack.
Mohamed Salah: The high-profile option
Salah has long been a target for Saudi clubs, and Al Ittihad reportedly made a £150 million offer for the Egyptian in 2024, which Liverpool rejected.
Salah has had a disappointing season, scoring just six goals so far, but his experience, finishing ability, and left-footed precision make him an attractive option. If Diaby were to leave in the summer, Salah could potentially slot into the attacking unit and add immediate star power.
Robert Lewandowski: The realistic replacement
Despite Salah’s appeal, Lewandowski may be the more practical solution to replace Benzema. The Polish striker scored 12 goals in 24 appearances for Barcelona this season and has consistently delivered at the highest level in La Liga and the Champions League.
His playing style aligns closely with Benzema’s, particularly in holding the ball up, finishing with his back to goal, and providing leadership on the pitch. By contrast, Salah is better suited to wide attacking roles and may struggle in a central striker position.
Who should Al Ittihad choose?
While Mohamed Salah represents the glamour option, Robert Lewandowski appears to be the more logical choice to replace Benzema on a footballing level. His proven goal-scoring record, positional intelligence, and experience in top European leagues suggest he can immediately replicate Benzema’s influence.
Salah could bring star appeal and attacking flair, but in terms of delivering consistent performances in the striker role, Lewandowski is the player best equipped to fill the void.
Al Ittihad now face a critical decision ahead of the summer transfer window: pursue Salah for star power or secure Lewandowski to maintain continuity and firepower up front. Either choice will shape the club’s ambitions in the Saudi Pro League for seasons to come.
