The 38-year-old striker is reportedly training alone as he pushes for a move back to Europe to keep his 2026 World Cup dreams alive.
The high-profile marriage between Karim Benzema and Al-Ittihad has reached a breaking point. The former Real Madrid captain and Ballon d’Or winner is reportedly in a “cold war” with the Saudi club’s hierarchy over a contract renewal offer that he deems “disrespectful.”
The Contract Standoff
According to sources close to the player, Al-Ittihad’s latest proposal would remove Benzema’s fixed salary, shifting his earnings entirely to image rights and endorsements. The Frenchman and his agents have rejected the move, leading to Benzema’s decision to stop playing until a resolution is reached.
The veteran striker, now 38, has been training away from the main squad, claiming that the promises made during his blockbuster arrival in Saudi Arabia are no longer being honored.
The World Cup Dream & Lyon Return
The core of Benzema’s frustration is his desire to represent France in the 2026 World Cup. To earn a call-up, he believes he must return to a more competitive European league.
Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon) have emerged as the primary destination. A return to his boyhood club would offer Benzema the platform to maintain his elite fitness while playing in Ligue 1. With Al-Ittihad league directors pointing to his age and recent injury record as reasons for the pay cut, a “free transfer” termination could be on the cards.
State of Play: What’s Next?
- Market Status: Negotiations are currently stalled.
- Potential Fee: Possible contract termination, allowing a free move to Europe.
- The Goal: Ligue 1 football to secure a spot in Didier Deschamps’ 2026 squad.
Miguel Manjate is a football journalist and editor covering the Premier League, European competitions, and transfer news, with a strong focus on match analysis and data-driven reporting.
