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via Reuters
Soccer Football – Saudi Pro League – Al Shabab v Al Ittihad – King Fahd International Stadium, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 3, 2023 Al Ittihad’s Karim Benzema during the warm up before the match REUTERS/Ahmed Yosri
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via Reuters
Soccer Football – Saudi Pro League – Al Shabab v Al Ittihad – King Fahd International Stadium, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 3, 2023 Al Ittihad’s Karim Benzema during the warm up before the match REUTERS/Ahmed Yosri
In the unpredictable realm of soccer transfers, where rumors often compete with reality, a storm has erupted around. Whispers of Al-Ittihad’s star forward Karim Benzema and his ‘temporary’ exit due to mounting pressure have dominated headlines. In an unexpected twist, the Frenchman has now reportedly unleashed a verbal counterattack. This unfolding drama has left everybody puzzled, painting a picture of him caught in quite a crossfire. Karim Benzema, despite getting sidelined by Al-Ittihad boss, Marcelo Gallardo, has taken center stage.
In a revelation recently, as reported by the L’Equipe, the Ballon d’Or winner has dismissed all talks surrounding his exit. Karim Benzema has also boldly accused the media of fabricating a false story, stating, “The media is lying, I did not ask to leave”. He was seemingly caught off-guard by media outlets, days after the ignited speculations. This shocking U-turn has thrown a curveball into the ongoing transfer drama.
As the winter transfer market approaches its climax, Karim Benzema’s unpredictable statement that’s been reported has now ignited several questions all around. It was also reported that Al-Ittihad presented Karim Benzema with a tempting loan offer to continue his journey in Saudi Arabia itself. However, the Frenchman turned down that offer as well, maybe, due to the allure of returning to Europe.
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EPL, Ligue 1 clubs- who is monitoring Karim Benzema and his situation?
The echoes of Karim Benzema’s decision are reverberating across Europe, capturing the attention of some EPL giants. As the January transfer window nears its exit, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal seem highly interested in acquiring the lethal striker. Ligue 1 outfit and the Frenchman’s former club Lyon are also believed to be interested, but no official talks have been held with the Ballon d’Or winner.
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via Imago
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – AUGUST 19: Karim Benzema of Al Ittihad reacts during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Ittihad and Al-Tai at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium on August 19, 2023 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Photo by Khalid Alhaj/MB Media SPO PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xKhalidxAlhaj/MBxMediax
The Real Madrid icon was one of the high-profile signings in the Saudi Pro League and he is being paid $107 million per season, for his time with Al-Ittihad. To facilitate a move back to Europe, Karim Benzema will surely need to take a big pay cut. It does seem like a tricky situation for the forward currently, considering his transfer stance. The Frenchman is reportedly training alone in Jeddah, while his Al-Ittihad teammates prepare for the season in a Dubai training camp.
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As he returned to the club 17 days late after the break, he is not allowed to rejoin his teammates due to ‘disciplinary reasons’. The media storm surrounding Karim Benzema’s exit adds a layer to the already gripping drama.
Will the Ballon d’Or winner stay and fight for his place at Al-Ittihad? Or will a tempting offer from Europe sway his decision? The coming days promise to be filled with exciting twists, and perhaps, another fiery denial or two from the man himself.
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