Former Real Madrid Karim Benzema refused to play for Al-Ittihad after a shocking renewal offer: €0 fixed salary, The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner is Set to Join Chelsea on a Free Transfer this January
The 38-year-old French forward has withdrawn from the first team and is now practicing separately as of Thursday.
In his absence on Thursday, Al Ittihad managed a 2-2 tie with Al Fateh in the Saudi Pro League. Saleh Al-Shehri stepped into Benzema’s role and scored the opening goal in the 25th minute. The result leaves Al Ittihad positioned sixth in the standings.
Benzema, who claimed the 2022 Ballon d’Or, will see his contract expire this summer. According to sources, the proposed extension from the Saudi Pro League—which oversees contracts for key players at PIF-backed clubs—would essentially require him to play with minimal compensation.
The former Real Madrid skipper, who collected 25 honors during his time with the Spanish club (including four league titles, three domestic cups, and five Champions League victories), has performed reasonably well this season, netting eight goals across 14 league appearances.
Sources indicate he is weighing all available options.
French winger Moussa Diaby is reportedly considering a departure from the club as well.
Meanwhile, French midfielder N’Golo Kanté is reportedly nearing an agreement with Fenerbahçe. Kanté’s contract is also set to expire this summer following a three-year stint in the Saudi Pro League. Reports suggest that Al Ittihad and Fenerbahçe are currently negotiating a transfer fee, as the Saudi club hopes to avoid losing Kanté without receiving compensation.
