Last summer, European football saw a lot of big names succumb to big money from Saudi Arabia. But a few months later, several stars are again linked to a departure from the Gulf state. Also Karim Benzema.
It is no coincidence that the Saudis have recently invested so much money in the arrival of big names from football. The country wants to put itself on the map in a more positive way in an attempt to promote tourism. In addition, Saudi Arabia will host the World Cup in 2034.
And so they do everything they can to make the local competition as attractive as possible. To this end, millions are being spent on the arrival of big names who have colored European football in recent years. Cristiano Ronaldo paved the way at the beginning of 2023 with his switch to Al-Nassr.
Unhappy Benzema
And during the last summer mercato, the Portuguese was followed by a lot of other big names. Also Karim Benzema. The former Ballon d’Or winner did not renew his contract and moved to the Saudi champions Al-Ittihad. But that transition was not a success for the time being.
The results are quite disappointing, Al-Ittihad is currently only seventh in the Saudi Pro League. Moreover, Benzema would feel too much pressure internally, which would affect his performance. To top it all off, he also showed up days late for the winter training camp.
Return to Europe
After barely six months, Benzema is already explicitly linked to a (temporary) departure. Ex-club Olympique Lyon is already dreaming out loud about a rental deal and according to The Guardian, that plan is now also starting to mature at Chelsea FC. However, it will not be easy to find a deal. According to the well-known journalist Ben Jacobs, Al-Ittihad does not want to cooperate in a departure.
In the event of a loan, the Saudis would refuse to pay even a single share of the salary costs. Benzema made it clear that he certainly does not want to play for another Saudi club, a return to Europe is his priority. So it promises to be a pressing transfer soap opera.
