Ex-Real Madrid star Karim Benzema could be set to sensationally quit new side Al-Ittihad after it emerged that he has fallen out with boss Nuno Espirito Santo.
Former Celtic striker Jota has already left the club just weeks after arrival, and Benzema could be set to do the same.
The Frenchman, who joined them on a free transfer earlier in the transfer window, has appeared twice for his new side but is yet to get off the mark, though he has registered an assist.
He signed a three-year contract with Al-Ittihad, who lifted the Saudi Pro League last season under former Tottenham boss Nuno Espirito Santo, and they currently sit top once more after the opening games of the season.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. 10th June, 2023. French football player Karim Benzema is presented to Al-Ittihad fans at King Abdullah Sports City stadium in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on June 8, 2023. Photo by Balkis Press/ABACAPRESS.COM Credit: Abaca Press/ 2R6KGC6 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. 10th June, 2023. French football player Karim Benzema is presented to Al-Ittihad fans at King Abdullah Sports City stadium in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on June 8, 2023. Photo by Balkis Press/ABACAPRESS.COM Credit: Abaca Press/Alamy Live News (Alamy Stock Photo)
However, sensational reports claim that he may be on his way out already after falling out with the manager.
As per Saudi sources, Nuno Espírito Santo has told the Al-Ittihad board that Karim Benzema does not fit into his tactical style and was never keen on signing the veteran striker, a fact that has led to tension between the two men.
As a result, Benzema is ‘not comfortable’ working in the current environment at the Saudi club and a transfer away has not been ruled out before the transfer deadline on September 1st.
It would go down as a massive shock, with Benzema among the cover stars that the Saudi Pro League have recruited this summer, alongside the likes of Neymar, Riyad Mahrez and Ruben Neves.
Should he depart, he would have free choice of where to head next, with the Frenchman not having played a competitive game for Real Madrid before his move away.