As the January Saudi Pro League transfer deadline approaches, Karim Benzema will remain at Al Ittihad, The Athletic reports. Lyon had been exploring the possibility of a transfer for the former player during this transfer window, just six months after his move to Saudi Arabia, where he signed a three-year contract last summer following his departure from Real Madrid.
Despite scoring 12 goals in 20 appearances for Al Ittihad, the 36-year-old striker was criticized by fans for his performances and subsequently deleted his Instagram profile. Benzema was absent during the half-time break in Saudi Arabia and his late arrival into the team after an AWOL holiday sparked controversy.
Benzema is not moving from Al Ittihad
Al Ittihad, who finished seventh in the Saudi Pro League, lost their last three league games before the break and will look to make up ground when they return to action with a King’s Cup quarter-final clash against Al Faisaly on February 4 .
Benzema is one of several high-profile players who moved to Saudi clubs in the summer after the country’s public investment fund took control of several teams, including Al Ittihad. The recent departure of Jordan Henderson from Al Ettifaq to Ajax highlights the trend of players choosing to leave the SPL before two years of residency despite tax-free salary benefits.
With a successful past at Real Madrid, where he won 24 trophies in his 14 years at the club, Benzema is the second-best goalscorer in the team’s history, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo. His experience and skills represent a valuable asset for Al Ittihad, who are confident in the French striker’s performance for the remainder of the season.