Benzema Fever in Turkey: Fenerbahçe Eyes a Proven Goal-Getter
14 October 2025
Fenerbahçe Eyes Benzema Amid Goal Drought
Turkish media on Tuesday reported that Fenerbahçe is keen to sign Karim Benzema, the French striker and captain of Al-Ittihad, to strengthen the attack.
The club is seeking a fresh attacking dimension as it chases a league title after a dip in goal output this season.
Fotomac noted that coach Domenico Tedisco signaled a need for a proven scorer who can finish chances and lead the line.
With Benzema's contract at Al-Ittihad reportedly ending this season and no renewal yet, speculation about a move to Türkiye has intensified.
Sadetin Saran, the president of Fenerbahçe, is said to have met with the board to “gauge” Benzema's interest through his agent.
Fenerbahçe sits fourth with 16 points after eight rounds, six points behind Galatasaray, the champion and leader.
Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad began the season poorly, suffering two losses in the AFC Champions League and a league setback in a derby with Al-Nassr, leaving them chasing the leaders.
The club also replaced Laurent Blanc with Sergio Conceicao, signaling a push for immediate results.
Benzema's influence goes beyond goals: he acts as a leader, helps in build-up, and creates space for teammates, a frame of reference for younger players.
Since arriving from Real Madrid in 2023, Benzema has been a pivotal figure for Al-Ittihad, though his goal tally has rarely matched his Madrid peak.
His experience lifts the squad and steadying the attack, and he remains a magnet for European clubs watching the Saudi project with interest, including whispers of a return to the continent via Benfica under Jose Mourinho.
He has been a cornerstone for Al-Ittihad, guiding younger players and providing a calm, clinical edge in big matches.
In Turkey, the chatter continues, but Benzema's impact on the field and in the locker room remains clear for the moment.
Two punchlines:
- If Benzema signs, the net will file for a restraining order against his shots—they keep finding the back of the net too often.
- If he returns to Europe, even Benfica might start singing, “We’ve signed a magician who prefers turning chances into goals.”
