9 goals and 5 assists in 15 Saudi Pro League matches. This may seem surprising, but these are the statistics of a player who is currently very criticized in the country in which he plays. Indeed, despite this more than correct statistical line, Karim Benzema is criticized by some of the Al-Ittihad supporters and by certain media, to the point where he was even nicknamed Ben-Hazima, which means “son of defeat” in Arabic. Criticisms which can also be explained by the disappointing seventh place of his team in the championship.
Earlier this weekend, some Saudi media even mentioned a more than tense relationship with Marcelo Gallardo, the Argentine coach who took charge of the team only a few weeks ago. Knowing that with the previous coach, Nuno Espirito Santo, things were already very heated… So much information which therefore does not really go in the direction of the Real Madrid legend.
Al-Ittihad calms things down
And there is something new. Several Saudi media like Asharq al-Awsat now relay the words of a leader of Al-Ittihad who explained this hasty departure of Karim Benzema. “Benzema requested three days’ leave due to special circumstances. He traveled to Madrid on Thursday evening. Karim is a very professional player and remains attached to the team”, explained this leader, on condition of anonymity. Words which calm things down a little, since Al-Ittihad explains that the Frenchman left with the agreement of the club, which was not known or confirmed until now.
Benzema therefore did not deliberately skip training, and did not sneak away behind everyone’s backs. What to calm the enthusiasm of the supporters? Not sure, but at least we know that there is no conflict between the club and the player. Yesterday, we revealed to you exclusively on Foot Mercato that there was no question of the player trained at OL leaving during this winter transfer window. To be continued…
Pub. THE
Update