January 28, 2026
Tensions are escalating between French star Karim Benzema and the Saudi club Al-Ittihad, ahead of the expected confrontation with Al-Fateh in the nineteenth round of the Saudi Professional League.
In a surprising development, reliable journalist Santi Ona revealed that Benzema refused to participate in the Al-Fateh match scheduled for tomorrow, due to his disagreement with the offer made to renew his contract with the club.
“UNA” reported that “Benzema” explicitly informed the federation’s management of his refusal to play, objecting to the terms of the new contract offered to him, which may complicate matters for the club in the coming period.
It is noteworthy that the French striker is 38 years old, and has the right to sign with any team starting this January, with the expiration of his current contract with Al-Ittihad, which extends until June 30, 2026.
Al-Ittihad currently occupies sixth place in the Saudi League standings with 30 points, 15 points behind Al-Hilal, the leaders with 45 points, which increases the importance of avoiding any disputes within the team.
Media reports had previously indicated that a meeting was held between Benzema and Fahd Sindi, president of Al-Ittihad Club Company, to discuss the renewal file, but the meeting ended with the player leaving in a state of anger, which indicates the existence of deep differences between the two parties. (Arm News)
