• News

Benzema “not wanted” by Al Ittihad coach after captaincy rift

Karim Benzema
"Copa del Rey - Real Madrid vs Atlético Madrid" by DSanchez17 is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.
Advertisement

The Frenchman’s relationship with manager Nuno Espírito Santo has deteriorated.

Nuno Espírito Santo has reportedly informed Al Ittihad that Karim Benzema has no place in his plans for the season.

Al Ittihad signed Benzema on a staggering €200m-per-season contract earlier this summer. The Ballon d’Or winner ended his glorious Real Madrid spell to join the Saudi Pro League club.

However, as the Al Ittihad start the 2023-24 campaign, it seems that Benzema’s future at the club is uncertain.

According to Saudi outlet Asharq Al-Aswat, Nuno was not keen on signing Benzema. The former Tottenham manager has rejected the Frenchman’s demand to wear the team’s captain armband.

Benzema is reportedly “uncomfortable” at Al Ittihad, with the Saudi media speculating that he could leave the club on a shock transfer.

The 35-year-old has started for Nuno’s side in their first two matches of the new season, registering an assist. However, he could be dropped from the squad for Al Ittihad’s upcoming league clash against Al Riyadh.

The Saudi Pro giants could be forced to choose between keeping Benzema and Nuno. The Portuguese manager joined Al Ittihad in July 2022, leading them to the Saudi Pro League trophy last season. Let’s see if a rift with the team’s top signing would threaten Nuno’s position at the Saudi Arabian club.

x