Overview
- French striker Karim Benzema has taken time off and distanced himself from Al-Ittihad, according to reports from L'Équipe and Foot Mercato.
- The renewal proposal was delivered by the Saudi Pro League, represented by Michael Emenalo, rather than directly by the club.
- AS reports Benzema felt "betrayed" and "humiliated" after being presented with terms that would reduce his pay compared with earlier assurances of equal or improved conditions.
- Reports say he declined to play a recent league match against Al-Fateh, a claim that remains unverified.
- His contract runs out this summer, and he has acknowledged offers from Europe as his next move remains uncertain.