2023-12-30 17:19:17
Funny moment that Karim Benzema currently finds himself in. The Al-Ittihad (Saudi Arabia) striker, strongly criticized in recent weeks by supporters of his new club, has once again found himself, despite himself, in a controversy which has rapidly swelled in recent hours, while the local media Al-Riyadiya explained that he had left Jeddah and had not participated in the last training sessions of the week.
This Saturday afternoon, the Spanish daily Brand, rather close to Real Madrid, provided a first element of response and a justification from the Benzema clan regarding this mysterious absence. His entourage explains that the reason is quite stupid: “the Frenchman has a foot injury and has the authorization of the club and its doctors,” writes Marca. There is no controversy in this sense, in no case did the player flee Jeddah. »
Debuts under fire from critics
In recent hours, several Saudi media including Al-Riyadiya and Asharq al-Awsat also echoed an absence authorized by the club for “special circumstances”. This Saturday, Al-Ittihad was to face Al-Taï for the 19th day of the Saudi championship, without its star striker, but the match was ultimately postponed by the Saudi league due to bad weather conditions which complicated the trip Benzema’s teammates.
It’s another funny episode for Karim Benzema, who also stood out a few days ago after suddenly deactivating his Instagram account, the day after the heavy defeat suffered by his team against that of Cristiano Ronaldo, Al-Nassr (5-2). Sportingly, despite statistics that are anything but ridiculous (20 matches, 12 goals, 5 assists), the 36-year-old striker is roundly criticized in Saudi Arabia, notably by the press but also by his supporters, dissatisfied with his performance.
“It is true that we expected more from Benzema, but we remain aware of his value as a world-class player,” explained an Al-Ittihad club official to AFP. It is not always easy to arrive in a new championship and shine immediately (…) and it is perhaps a question of time.”
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