Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Spanish press reports have revealed new developments in the negotiations to renew the contract of Frenchman Karim Benzema with Saudi club Al-Ittihad during the current period.
Benzema had effectively declared his defiance during the previous match, refusing to play against Al-Fateh in protest against the contract renewal offer presented by the club’s management.
Al-Ittihad offered Karim Benzema a contract renewal without any financial compensation, with the player only receiving revenue from his image rights. The French striker considered this offer insulting.
Karim Benzema’s contract with Al-Ittihad ends in June 2026. At 38 years old, the player was keen to stay with the team for a longer period, but negotiations did not go well, bringing him closer to leaving the club.
According to ESPN, the offer from the Saudi Professional League practically means that Benzema will play for Al-Ittihad for almost free.
As a result, the former Real Madrid star rejected the offer and decided to step away from the first team. He began exploring all available options, including a return to European football or a move to a Major League Soccer club.
Karim Benzema has participated in 19 matches with Al-Ittihad in various competitions during the current season, during which he scored 8 goals.
