Benzema feels let down by Al Ittihad
The French striker was promised a contract renewal on similar or improved terms, but the reality is a significant pay cut.
Karim Benzema feels misled by Al Ittihad’s leadership. What once appeared to be a lasting honeymoon following his move to Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2023 has ended in an abrupt and premature breakdown in relations, after what the French striker believes were promises that were not kept.
The situation began when the player and the club opened negotiations over a contract extension. Al Ittihad’s ownership assured Benzema that any renewal would be offered on terms similar to, or even better than, his current deal. The reality has been very different. The proposal put forward to extend his contract includes a significant pay cut compared with what the Frenchman is earning now.
Disappointment and a drastic decision
Benzema feels humiliated by the offer, which the former Real Madrid star believes fails to respect either his history or his current standing at the Saudi club. After a meeting held on Wednesday afternoon, the striker did not expect such a proposal, one he feels would amount to playing almost “for free.” He has been left deeply disappointed, particularly given his key role in Al Ittihad’s recent success.
Last season, the club won both the league title and the domestic cup, ending a 25-year wait for major trophies. As a consequence of the breakdown, Benzema has decided he will not continue playing for the Saudi club, according to a report by French journalist Santi Aouna.
Al Ittihad is currently out of the domestic title race but remains alive in the AFC Champions League. This season, Benzema has scored eight goals in league play, four in the cup and another four in continental competition.
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