Karim Benzema's Contract Standoff with Al-Ittihad Escalates
In a dramatic turn of events, French football superstar Karim Benzema has reportedly refused to play for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad following what his representatives have described as an "insulting" contract extension offer from the league administration. The Ballon d'Or winner, who joined Al-Ittihad in June 2023, finds himself at odds with his employers over financial terms that his camp believes would amount to "playing for free."
The Contract Offer That Sparked the Controversy
According to reports from French media outlets L'Équipe and Foot Mercato, the Saudi Pro League's director of football, Michael Emenalo, presented Benzema with a contract proposal on Wednesday, just days before the transfer window closes. The timing and nature of the offer have left the veteran striker furious and disillusioned with the management.
This development comes despite Benzema's significant contributions to Al-Ittihad's success. Last season, he captained the team to a league and cup double, a achievement that had raised his expectations for a more lucrative contract extension. His performance this season has been equally impressive, with 16 goals in 21 matches across league and cup competitions.
Benzema's Stellar Career and Current Discontent
Karim Benzema is no ordinary footballer. With a glittering career that includes:
- 503 goals in 967 club matches
- 37 goals in 97 appearances for the French national team
- Real Madrid's second-highest scorer behind Cristiano Ronaldo
- The prestigious Ballon d'Or award
His credentials as one of football's greatest goalscorers are unquestionable. This makes the current contract dispute particularly surprising given Benzema's recent public statements about his commitment to Al-Ittihad.
From Commitment to Confrontation
Just months ago, Benzema was enthusiastically discussing his future with the Saudi club. In an interview with L'Équipe, he declared, "I'm part of the project, I'm in the right place" and spoke at length about his desire to extend his contract in Saudi Arabia. The sudden shift from this positive outlook to outright refusal to play highlights the depth of his disappointment with the current offer.
The immediate consequences of this standoff could be significant for Al-Ittihad's upcoming matches. Reports suggest Benzema will likely be absent from Sunday's game against Al-Najma, and his participation in the highly anticipated clash against Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in just over a week remains uncertain.
European Interest and Future Prospects
Adding another layer to this developing story, multiple European clubs have reportedly contacted Benzema, indicating potential alternatives if his situation with Al-Ittihad remains unresolved. This interest from other teams could strengthen his negotiating position or provide an exit route should the contract dispute prove irreconcilable.
The situation represents a significant test for the Saudi Pro League's ability to retain top international talent. As one of their highest-profile signings, how the league handles Benzema's contract concerns could have broader implications for their ambitious football project and their reputation among global football stars.
