Karim Benzema set for Al Ittihad exit? French star refuses to play in next game amid contract dispute
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
The striker is unhappy with the club’s recent contract offer.
Karim Benzema, 38, has reportedly declined to play for Al-Ittihad after turning down a new deal offer from the Saudi Pro League team, according to a report from Foot Mercato.
The French international striker has made the decision that he will not participate in their next game against Al Fateh because he finds the offer inadequate.
The former Real Madrid striker’s contract with the Jeddah team is about to expire in six months. The Ballon d’Or winner is certain to leave Al-Ittihad when his contract expires at the conclusion of the season after turning down the most recent contract offer.
Karim Benzema is digging his heels in and will not participate in the next game for the Saudi Pro League team. However, it’s unclear if the striker would only miss one game or if the forward won’t play until he gets a contract offer he accepts.
Al-Ittihad, who are currently sixth in the league, will travel to Al-Fateh. But it appears that Karim Benzema will not be available. If he is still not participating when they host Al-Najma on Sunday, a transfer exit may be imminent.
Karim Benzema earlier revealed he could return to Europe
The former France international disclosed that European clubs would like to sign him for the 2026–2027 season.
Benzema said: “It’s true that I have offers from Europe. I need to consider everything, choose wisely, and see where I feel good, not forgetting that I feel comfortable here and receive everyone’s affection. In any case, I’m not going to stop playing football or competing in six months.”
When will Karim Benzema’s contract expire?
His contract will expire after the end of the season.
Why is Benzema not playing?
Because his recent contract demand has not been met by the club.
Where do Al-Ittihad stand in the table?
They are sixth in the league table.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.
After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.