In the Saudi press, rumors of a rupture between them have been circulating.
The head coach, Nuno Espirito Santo, and star striker Karim Benzema are rumored to be at odds, according to the Saudi media. Just a few time after the French superstar and former Galactico started his second match for Al-Ittihad following a shocking move that saw him depart Real Madrid while holding the Ballon d’Or in his possession.
According to the rumors, there was conflict between the two players in the locker room since the Portuguese coach did not urge the transfer of the French superstar. According to the source, the Portuguese coach turned down Benzema’s plea to lead the team as captain, adding to the already complex situation.
Then, according to reports, Nuno Espirito Santo told the Al-Ittihad board that Benzema “does not fit in” with his leadership style and Al-Ittihad’s game plan. According to the allegations, Benzema himself was not happy to represent Portugal since Al-Ittihad’s treatment of him was exactly the contrary of what he had anticipated. According to further sources, Benzema was eager to leave Al-Ittihad and a shocking move was planned.
Nuno Espirito Santo, however, has issued a pretty frank remark on his relationship with Benzema following weeks of rumors. The Portuguese reiterated that there were no problems between him and the celebrity and disregarded whatever disagreements they may have had. According to the report, he said: “I read in the press that my relationship with Karim Benzema was not good; everyone who knows me knows that, of course, it’s absurd; my relationship with all the players is good; we have a strong group; we are happy with all the players; and we are happy that Karim is here with us.”
He added of Benzema, “You can tell he is pleased on the field and he enjoys playing for Al-Ittihad. I comprehend what’s happening. However, we are a powerful band—a very, very, very, very powerful band.
Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema
This season he played in total 3 times for 270 minutes for Pro League.
Karim Benzema scored 1 goal for Al Ittihad. He procured one assist. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 1st in Pro League. In the last match Al Ittihad won 4-0 against Al Riyadh. The next match in Pro League will be against Al Wahda.
Al Ittihad performance and stats
Al Ittihad is currently 1st in the Pro League with 9 points.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 9 goals and conceding 0.
Al Ittihad will play the next match in Pro League against Al Wahda on Monday 28th of August in Makkah. The prediction is Al Wahdaa drawAl Ittihad winning the match.