Karim Benzema requests temporary departure from Al-Ittihad amid Real Madrid potential return

In a sudden twist that has sent shockwaves through the football community, Karim Benzema, the illustrious Ballon d’Or recipient of 2022, has reportedly expressed his desire to temporarily leave Al-Ittihad.

The seasoned French striker, who made the move to the Saudi club just last summer from the illustrious Real Madrid, has cited mounting pressure as a significant impediment to delivering his optimum performance on the field.

According to reports from AFP (via L’Equipe), emanating from a source closely connected to the Saudi club based in Jeddah, Al-Ittihad sought to find a compromise by proposing a loan arrangement to another team within the Saudi league.

However, Benzema has steadfastly rejected this option, asserting that he feels “incapable of delivering his best at Al-Ittihad under the prevailing pressure.”

Benzema’s contractual commitment to Al-Ittihad extends until 2026, and the club’s management is currently grappling with the complexity of the situation. Notably, the entourage of the player, when contacted by AFP, refrained from confirming the details surrounding this unexpected development.

French side Lyon is reportedly eyeing a sensational move to bring Karim Benzema back to the club amid his reported dissatisfaction with Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.

The striker, who left Lyon for Real Madrid in 2009, has reportedly attracted interest from his former club. However, Lyon faces financial challenges, unable to match Benzema’s current salary at Al-Ittihad, necessitating a significant pay cut for the player.

Previous links to a return to Real Madrid were swiftly dismissed by the club. As the transfer window progresses, the football world awaits developments regarding Benzema’s potential Lyon return and the resolution of his situation at Al-Ittihad.

This unforeseen turn of events introduces a cloud of uncertainty over the future trajectory of Karim Benzema’s career in Saudi football.

As stakeholders await more information, the football fraternity finds itself in anticipation of further updates regarding this unanticipated and dramatic chapter in the career of the esteemed French striker.