Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema has once again been left out of the squad for an official match, marking the second consecutive time this has occurred, as reported by AS. This decision means that the French forward will not participate in the crucial AFC Champions League Round of 16 match against Uzbek side Navbahor. Benzema’s absence from the squad raises questions about his current situation at the club, especially following reports of a conflict with the head coach. The situation appears to be affecting his relationship with the coaching staff, which could have significant implications for his future at Al-Ittihad. Given his status as a marquee signing, many fans and analysts are keen to understand the dynamics that have led to this development. This latest exclusion is particularly disappointing for Benzema, who has been striving to make an impact in the Saudi Pro League after his move from Real Madrid. Injuries and now this situation have hindered his ability to contribute fully to the team. The AFC Champions League is a prestigious tournament, and missing out on such a key match is a setback for both him and Al-Ittihad. As the club prepares for the match against Navbahor, they will need to find ways to cope without Benzema’s experience and skill on the pitch. His absence could affect the team’s morale, as he is not only a talented player but also a leader who brings a wealth of experience from his time in European football.
Moving forward, it will be crucial for both Benzema and Al-Ittihad to resolve any underlying issues. The football community will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and whether Benzema can reclaim his spot in the squad for future matches. The next few weeks will be pivotal for his career in Saudi Arabia, as he looks to regain his form and contribute to his team’s ambitions in both domestic and international competitions.
Recall that last week, Karim Benzema was involved in a conflict with Al-Ittihad head coach Marcelo Gallardo, which has now escalated to a notable exclusion from the squad. Reports indicate that Benzema refused to adhere to an individual training program and left the training session in a dramatic fashion. This incident has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the dynamics between the star player and the coaching staff.
Benzema joined Al-Ittihad last summer as a free agent after an illustrious career at Real Madrid, where he became one of the most celebrated strikers in football history. Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia, he has made a significant impact, playing in 24 matches across all competitions. During this time, he has scored 15 goals and provided five assists, showcasing his ability to adapt to a new league despite the challenges that come with it. However, the recent conflict with Gallardo has thrown a shadow over his performance. The refusal to follow the training regimen could indicate deeper issues, possibly relating to his role in the team or his relationship with the coaching staff. Such incidents can lead to a breakdown in communication and trust, which are essential for a successful team dynamic. Benzema’s contract with Al-Ittihad runs until the end of June 2026, reflecting the club’s commitment to him as a marquee player. His market value, as estimated by Transfermarkt, stands at €15 million, which highlights his ongoing relevance in football despite the current turmoil. The club invested significantly in bringing him on board, expecting his experience and skill to elevate their performance in both domestic and international competitions.
As the situation develops, it’s crucial for both Benzema and Al-Ittihad to find common ground. The club’s management may need to intervene to resolve any underlying issues, ensuring that Benzema feels valued and motivated to contribute to the team’s success. Additionally, Gallardo must also address the situation diplomatically, as maintaining a positive environment is vital for team cohesion. Benzema’s experience in high-pressure situations, particularly from his time in European football, could be instrumental in navigating this turbulent period. However, his ability to regain form and focus will be crucial for Al-Ittihad as they aim to compete effectively in the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League. Looking ahead, the team will face challenges in maintaining their competitive edge without Benzema’s leadership and goal-scoring ability. His absence from the squad can impact the morale of the team, particularly as they prepare for important matches. The coaching staff will need to find ways to motivate the players and ensure that they can perform at their best in his absence. As the football community watches closely, the outcome of this conflict could have significant implications for both Benzema’s career and Al-Ittihad’s ambitions. Fans will be eager to see how the situation unfolds and whether Benzema can reconcile with the coaching staff and return to the pitch as a key player for the team.
In conclusion, the conflict between Karim Benzema and Marcelo Gallardo has raised questions about the current state of affairs at Al-Ittihad. The team’s success hinges on resolving these issues and maintaining a positive, collaborative atmosphere. Benzema’s talent and experience are invaluable, and finding a path forward will be essential for both his career and the club’s aspirations in the coming months.
