Late Arrival Ruffles Feathers at Al-Ittihad
Star striker Karim Benzema has returned to Saudi club Al-Ittihad, but his 17-day tardiness has left club officials “furious.” Despite the ire, there’s no indication that the former Real Madrid player will terminate his contract this month.
Speculations Amid Late Arrival
Amid the late return, speculations have arisen linking Benzema with European clubs. The 36-year-old, who left for holidays during the Saudi Pro League’s mid-season break three weeks ago, raised eyebrows by shutting down his Instagram account, boasting 76 million followers.
Holiday Revelations and Return
Sources reveal that Benzema spent his holiday in Mauritius until Monday, arriving back 17 days later than scheduled. The club, irked by the lack of communication, plans a meeting with the board to discuss the incident and chart the future course.
Club’s Discontent and Future Discussions
Club management and the coach are reportedly furious with the unfolding situation. While the source confirms Benzema remains the captain of Al-Ittihad, discussions about the events and potential consequences will be on the table in the upcoming meeting.
No Exit Option for Benzema
Despite the tension, there’s “no option” for Benzema to leave the club, according to sources. Reports circulating about a potential move to Premier League side Chelsea remain unconfirmed. The situation highlights the challenges faced by high-profile players in foreign leagues.
Benzema’s Role and Previous Setbacks
Benzema was one of the marquee signings in the Saudi league last year, joining the ranks of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Neymar, and other European football stars. However, his club’s performance slipped to seventh in the league in December after three consecutive defeats, leading to discontent among supporters.
League Dynamics and Resumption Date
The Saudi league, where Al-Ittihad is owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, is set to resume on February 7. The late arrival saga adds an intriguing layer to the league dynamics and raises questions about the impact on Al-Ittihad’s upcoming matches.
In conclusion, Benzema’s delayed return has ignited controversy and discussions about his future at Al-Ittihad. The meeting with the club board is anticipated to provide clarity on the path forward for both the star striker and the Saudi club.
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