Al-Ittihad Firm on Retaining Karim Benzema

News: Al-Ittihad remains resolute in their choice to hold onto Karim Benzema, conclusively quelling any rumors surrounding his possible departure. Despite encountering disapproval from Saudi media and supporters, the club from Saudi Arabia is unwavering in their commitment to retain the 36-year-old French striker and recipient of the 2022 Ballon d’Or award.

Al-Ittihad Decides to Keep Benzema

Recent reports indicate that Al-Ittihad has firmly decided against parting ways with Karim Benzema during the January transfer window. Despite swirling rumors triggered by Benzema’s absence from training due to a foot injury, his representatives have explicitly stated that there are no ongoing talks with other teams and no intentions for a move to another Saudi club. Al-Ittihad stands steadfast in their commitment to keeping the former Real Madrid star within their ranks.

Karim Benzema’s Illustrious Career

Karim Benzema stands as one of the eminent strikers in the annals of football history. Presently plying his trade for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, he boasts a remarkable career trajectory. Benzema’s professional odyssey commenced with Olympique Lyonnais in 2005, clinching three Ligue 1 titles during his tenure. In 2009, his €35 million transfer to Real Madrid marked a pivotal juncture, propelling him to become the club’s second-highest goalscorer and the primary contributor in terms of assists.

Success at Real Madrid

Throughout his tenure at Real Madrid, Benzema formed an integral part of the renowned BBC trio alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. Their collective efforts propelled the team to secure four Champions League triumphs between 2014 and 2018. Subsequent to Ronaldo’s departure in 2018, Benzema seamlessly transitioned into the pivotal role of the team’s primary striker. His exceptional performance earned him numerous accolades, including selections for the La Liga Team of the Season, two La Liga Best Player awards, and claiming the prestigious Pichichi Trophy in 2022. Benzema culminated his journey with Real Madrid in 2023, clinching his fifth Champions League title before departing the club.

National Team Journey and Controversies

During his international career, Benzema proudly represented France, accumulating an impressive tally of 97 caps. However, his journey was marred by controversy. In 2015, he was embroiled in a blackmailing scandal, resulting in his exclusion from the 2010 World Cup squad. Despite this setback, Benzema made a remarkable comeback to the national team before ultimately retiring in December 2022.

His remarkable talents and contributions were duly acknowledged through prestigious accolades, notably claiming the UEFA Player of the Year and the Ballon d’Or titles in both 2021 and 2022. Notably, at the age of 34, he secured the Ballon d’Or for the second consecutive year, making him the third-oldest recipient of this esteemed award.

Al-Ittihad’s Firm Stand

To sum up, Al-Ittihad has unequivocally affirmed that Karim Benzema will continue as part of the club despite the swirl of criticism and speculation regarding his future. The illustrious career and numerous accolades of the French striker stand as a testament to his remarkable skills and significant contributions to the world of football. As time progresses, further clarity will likely emerge regarding his standing within the Saudi Pro League champions.

FAQs:

Q: Will Karim Benzema leave Al-Ittihad during the January transfer window?

A: No, Al-Ittihad has no intentions of letting go of Benzema. There are no discussions with other teams or plans for a transfer to another Saudi club.

Q: What are Karim Benzema’s career achievements?

A: Benzema has won multiple Ligue 1 titles, four Champions League titles, and prestigious individual awards such as the UEFA Player of the Year and the Ballon d’Or.

Q: Did Benzema face any controversies during his career?

A: Yes, he faced a blackmailing scandal in 2015 that resulted in him being left out of the 2010 World Cup squad. However, he made a comeback to the national team and retired in December 2022.