Karim Benzema ‘banished’ by Al-Ittihad following unauthorized absence as Chelsea prepare to seize opportunity
Karim Benzema, the former Real Madrid player, has reportedly requested to leave Al-Ittihad before the end of the month. The French striker has been training alone after going missing and returning from his holiday over two weeks late. Benzema has been performing well, scoring nine goals in 15 league games since joining Al-Ittihad. However, reports of dissatisfaction are growing, with Benzema rumored to have asked to leave the club temporarily due to pressure as one of the leading figures in Saudi football. Chelsea is said to be interested in signing him and providing an escape route. The Blues have struggled to find a consistent source of goals this season. Benzema’s impressive performance last season, where he scored 31 goals and won the Ballon d’Or, has caught the attention of several clubs. Lyon, where Benzema started his career, is also interested and could use his caliber to improve their struggling position in Ligue 1. However, Benzema would likely have to agree to a significant pay cut to return to Europe. If a deal is reached, it would be his first experience in the Premier League. The departure of Benzema from Al-Ittihad would be another setback for the Saudi Pro League, who recently saw Jordan Henderson leave Al-Ettifaq after only a few months.
