The situation at Al Ittihad seems to be deteriorating further. Just a few days ago, there was news about a disagreement in the team’s dressing room regarding transfer policies, involving new signing Jota. However, the tensions have escalated as both Karim Benzema, the star player, and Nuno Espirito Santo, the coach, have become central figures in the unfolding drama.
According to reports from Saudi media outlet ‘Al-Sharq Al-Awsat’, the crisis is intensifying. Despite Al Ittihad’s successful start to the season with two consecutive wins, complications have arisen following a summer of significant transfers, including Benzema, Kante, Fabinho, and Jota.
As detailed in the report, the current issue revolves around the strained relationship between Benzema and Nuno. The cause of tension stems from the treatment Benzema receives from the Portuguese coach, who reportedly does not consider the former Real Madrid player a good fit for his playing style. Sources cited by Al-Sharq Al-Awsat reveal that Nuno did not actively pursue Benzema’s signature during the summer transfer window, exacerbating the situation.
Reportedly, Benzema expressed his dissatisfaction with this predicament to the intermediary who facilitated his move to the Saudi Pro League. After failing to score a goal in the initial two rounds of the championship, Benzema is said to have requested the intermediary to help find “a solution.”
In a notable incident, Saudi media also highlights that Benzema had expressed his desire to be named captain but was met with a decision by Nuno to appoint Romarinho as captain instead, followed by Ahmed Sharahili.
