Manchester United has opted against pursuing a deal for French striker Karim Benzema, currently seeking an exit from the Saudi Pro League after a brief stint of six months. Despite having only one recognized center-forward, Rasmus Hojlund, for the remainder of the season, the club refrained from engaging in talks, citing the “exorbitant” financial demands associated with bringing the 36-year-old, who earns £86 million annually, to Old Trafford. This decision aligns with United’s commitment to managing their wage bill and budget within Financial Fair Play guidelines.
Benzema, who moved to Al-Ittihad from Real Madrid last summer, has scored 12 goals in 20 games, but his tenure in the Middle East has not unfolded as anticipated, with his new club currently struggling in seventh place. While rumors circulated about Benzema’s potential departure, he refuted these claims recently. Manchester United, grappling with a striker shortage due to Anthony Martial’s season-ending injury, has chosen not to pursue the experienced French forward.
With only Hojlund as the sole recognized striker, Manchester United faces a challenging situation, exacerbated by Martial’s absence. The 28-year-old forward has undergone surgery for a groin complaint, leading to an extended period of rest and rehabilitation. Martial’s contract expires at the end of the season, and there is no indication that the club plans to trigger an option for a further 12-month extension. The Frenchman has been limited to just five Premier League starts in the 2023/24 campaign and missed the last five games due to illness.
Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema
FranceThis season he played in total 15 times for 1212 minutes for Pro League.
Karim Benzema scored 9 goals for Al Ittihad. He procured 4 assists. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 7th in Pro League. In the last match Al Ittihad lost 5-2 against Al Nassr. The next match in Pro League will be against Al Tai.
Al Ittihad performance and stats
Al Ittihad is currently 7th in the Pro League with 28 points.
In the last 18 games, it has won 8 times, drawn 4 times, and lost 6 times. In its last match, Al Ittihad lost 2-5 against Al Nassr.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 34 goals and conceding 26.
Al Ittihad will play the next match in Pro League against Al Tai on Saturday 30th of December in Hail. The prediction is Al Ittihad winning the match.
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