There is reportedly a growing tension between Al-Ittihad manager Nuno Espirito Santo and newly signed French player, Karim Benzema.
Saudi Arabian newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat reported that Nuno has told Al-Ittihad’s board that the new player does not fit his style of play.
Sources who confirmed the growing tension between the duo, said Nuno has been saying he “did not ask for his signature” this summer.
The report added that Benzema publicly requested to be given the captain’s armband due to his extensive experience on the pitch and his status as a team star but Nuno refused, and eventually gave out the armband to Romarinho, and then to Ahmed Sharahili.
Benzema has reportedly conveyed his dissatisfaction with this situation to Saad Al-Laziz, the Saudi negotiator who brought him to the Saudi Pro League.
It remains to be seen what will happen next, but such an argument is only likely to end one way, with one of the parties involved leaving the club.
Benzema joined Ittihad Jeddah last June after his contract with Real Madrid came to an end, making him the Saudi club’s first marquee signing of the summer. He signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Al-Ittihad worth a reported €600m.
Benzema performed remarkably well in the Arab Clubs Champions Cup, scoring three goals; however, he is yet to hit the ground running in the Suadi Pro League.
Ittihad currently sit top of the league, but Benzema hasn’t contributed much in their opening two games, providing just one assist in a 3-0 victory over Al-Raed.
Karim Benzema is the most decorated Frenchman in football history. His early career is marked by exceptional talent and a rapid rise through the ranks of professional football.
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