Al Ahli Coach Blocks Karim Benzema Transfer From Al Ittihad Citing 2 Major Challenges

Karim Benzema remains in the transfer headlines. Fans are on the edge of their seats with the ambiguity surrounding the Frenchman’s future at Al Ittihad. Aside from the gossip of making a return to Europe, the rumor mill linked the ex-Real Madrid star to his current club’s rival, Al Ahli. But the interested club’s manager has put a barrier over this tempting prospect by citing two significant obstacles.

Although the links for Karim Benzema’s departure were put to bed after the club management reportedly agreed to fulfill his few demands, renowned journalist Sami AlQadi suggested that he was offered to Al Ahli by the Saudi Arabian PIF (Public Investment Fund). This was being done to keep the player in the Roshn Saudi League and also help Al Ittihad lower their salary cap. However, AlQadi claimed that even after ‘great attempts‘, Al Ahli’s manager Matthias Jaissle interjected the glorious opportunity because his reasons were clear.

Firstly, the German manager wasn’t impressed with Karim Benzema’s history of having feuds with both managers, Nuno Espirito Santo as well as the one in charge, Marcelo Gallardo. Jaissle believes the arrival of the 2021 Ballon d’Or winner might create problems within the dressing room and hinder his team’s chemistry and stability. Secondly, Al Ahli is keen to sign a fresh pair of legs from Europe in the summer transfer window. If they sign Benzema, this would count as their major transfer, which would hamper their chances of signing an ‘A-class player.’

The risk would multiply if Matthias Jaissle wasn’t able to make a marquee signing, given that the 35-year-old manager is keen to part ways with the likely outgoing summer signing Roberto Firmino. Hence, these succinct reasons failed Karim Benzema’s transfer to Al Ahli. Interestingly, the striker himself cleared the air, a few days ago. 

Karim Benzema claims his Al Ittifaq exit rumours are lies

Just hours ago, Karim Benzema dismissed all talks surrounding his exit. He boldly accused the media of fabricating a false story, stating, “The media is lying, I did not ask to leave”. The 36-year-old was seemingly caught off-guard by media outlets. Either way, this shocking U-turn has thrown a curveball into the ongoing transfer drama.

READ MORE: Chelsea Legend Warns Jordan Henderson of Impending ‘Test’ at Ajax After Saudi League Exit – “He Will Be a Father Figure…”

Notably, Karim Benzema was reportedly even presented the opportunity to share the locker room alongside his former Real Madrid teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo as well as with former rival Neymar at Al Hilal. Speaking of Europe, he has been reportedly offered a clean slate at Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal.

However, with the days passing, it does seem likely he will stay put in Riyadh.

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