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In the world of football, rumors and speculations about player transfers are a common occurrence. One such rumor that has been making rounds recently is whether Karim Benzema, the 36-year-old French striker and 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, is leaving Al-Ittihad, the Saudi Arabian club. In this article, we will delve into the details surrounding this topic and provide insights into the career of this renowned footballer.
The Determination of Al-Ittihad
Recent reports suggest that Al-Ittihad is resolute in its decision to retain Karim Benzema. Despite facing criticism from Saudi media and Al-Ittihad fans, the club has no intentions of letting go of the French striker during the January transfer window. The rumors about Benzema’s future with the club started when he missed training due to a foot injury. However, his player’s entourage clarified the situation, dispelling any doubts regarding his commitment.
No Discussions with Other Teams
Contrary to speculation about a potential transfer to another Saudi club, there have been no discussions with other teams involving Karim Benzema. Al-Ittihad remains determined to keep the former Real Madrid star. As of now, there’s no indication that Benzema is leaving Al-Ittihad. The coming weeks will likely bring more clarity to the French forward’s status with the Saudi Pro League champions.
Who is Karim Benzema?
Karim Benzema is a name that resonates with football enthusiasts worldwide. He is a French professional footballer known for his exceptional skills as a striker. Currently playing for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, Benzema has earned a reputation as one of the finest strikers in football history.
| Full Name | Karim Mostafa Benzema |
| Date of Birth | December 19, 1987 |
| Place of Birth | Lyon, France |
| Nationality | French |
| Position | Forward |
| Current Club | Real Madrid |
| Previous Clubs | Olympique Lyonnais |
| International Debut | March 28, 2007 (France National Team) |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) |
| Achievements | Multiple La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid; Consistent goal-scoring record; French national team contributions. |
Benzema’s career began with Olympique Lyonnais in 2005, where he won three Ligue 1 titles. In 2009, he made a high-profile €35 million move to Real Madrid, becoming the club’s second-highest goalscorer and top assist provider.
The Real Madrid Years
Benzema was a vital part of the renowned BBC trio, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, contributing to four Champions League victories from 2014 to 2018. After Ronaldo’s departure in 2018, Benzema transitioned to a sole striker role, receiving accolades like La Liga Team of the Season, La Liga Best Player twice, and the Pichichi Trophy in 2022. He capped off his Real Madrid career in 2023, winning his fifth Champions League title.
A Stellar International Career
Internationally, Benzema represented France with distinction, earning 97 caps. However, his career faced controversy in 2015 due to a blackmailing scandal. Despite being left out of the 2010 World Cup squad, he made a return to the national team before retiring in December 2022. Benzema’s accolades include the UEFA Player of the Year and the Ballon d’Or in 2021 and 2022, making him the third-oldest Ballon d’Or winner at the age of 34.
Karim Benzema’s Journey
Benzema’s football journey began at his hometown club, Bron Terraillon SC, when he was just eight years old. Nicknamed Coco, he caught the attention of Lyon’s youth academy after a stellar performance against Lyon’s youth team. Despite initial resistance, Benzema joined Lyon’s academy officially.
His rise through the youth ranks led to his professional debut for Lyon in January 2005. While he faced challenges initially, he soon became a key player, helping Lyon secure three league titles. His breakthrough came in the 2007-08 season, where he scored 31 goals, aiding Lyon in securing a league and cup double. His performances earned him accolades like Ligue 1 Player of the Year.
The Move to Real Madrid
In 2009, Benzema made the highly anticipated move to Real Madrid for €35 million. Although he faced difficulties adapting to Spain, he eventually became a crucial part of the club’s success. He played a significant role in Real Madrid’s three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018 and continued to be a prolific goal-scorer, becoming the club’s second-highest all-time scorer.
Recent Achievements
In the 2021-22 season, Benzema took on the role of vice-captain and led Real Madrid to their 35th La Liga title and fifth Champions League triumph, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer. His outstanding season culminated in winning the Ballon d’Or in October 2022. Benzema continued his success in the 2022-23 season but announced his departure from Real Madrid in June 2023, joining Saudi club Al-Ittihad and making an impressive debut.
Karim Benzema’s Age
Born on December 19, 1987, Karim Benzema is currently 36 years old. His journey in football began at a young age, and over the years, he has become a vital figure in the sport. His exceptional goal-scoring abilities and leadership skills continue to shine on the field, making him a force to be reckoned with in football even at this age in 2024.
Karim Benzema’s Net Worth
Karim Benzema’s remarkable career has translated into a significant net worth of $200 million. His time at Real Madrid, where he formed memorable partnerships with players like Cristiano Ronaldo, has solidified his status as one of the club’s greatest forwards. Despite facing challenges related to controversies and his Algerian heritage affecting his integration with the French national squad, his financial success reflects his achievements in the football world.
Is Karim Benzema Leaving Al Ittihad – FAQs
1. Is Karim Benzema leaving Al-Ittihad?
No, recent reports indicate that Al-Ittihad has no plans to allow Benzema to leave during the January transfer window, despite rumors and criticism.
2. Why has Benzema’s future with Al-Ittihad been questioned?
Speculation arose after the 36-year-old missed training, sparking rumors about his long-term status, but it was clarified as a foot injury by his player’s entourage.
3. Are there discussions about Benzema transferring to another Saudi club?
No, contrary to reports, there have been no discussions with other clubs, and Al-Ittihad is determined to retain the former Real Madrid star.
4. What impact has Benzema had at Al-Ittihad?
Despite criticism in Saudi Arabia, Benzema’s accolades, including the 2022 Ballon d’Or, highlight his significant role in the Saudi Pro League champions’ squad.
5. How has Benzema’s absence affected the rumors about his departure?
His absence from training fueled speculation, but it was clarified as a foot injury, dispelling doubts about any imminent departure.
In conclusion, Karim Benzema’s future with Al-Ittihad remains uncertain, but recent reports suggest that the club is determined to keep the French striker. Benzema’s illustrious career in football, from his early days at Lyon to his successful stint at Real Madrid, has solidified his status as one of the sport’s legends. As he continues to shine on the field, his age does not seem to be a barrier to his success, and his net worth reflects the impact he has made in the world of football.
