Benzema’s Renewal Saga: Is the King of the Saudis Staying or Not?

Benzema Renewal Rumors Debunked

Emerging reports on Wednesday clarified the truth behind Karim Benzema's contract with Al-Ittihad, dismissing whispers of a new deal to extend his stay at the Saudi club.

The 37-year-old joined the team in the summer of 2023 and proved pivotal, steering a double triumph of the league and the King\'s Cup last season, while his release clause window opens in January.

What the Reports Say

Earlier reports claimed a renewal, yet former Al-Ittihad stalwart Hamad Al-Muntashri suggested the Frenchman had signed a two-year contract, a claim that today clashes with other sources.

French outlet Foot Mercato reported Benzema had not renewed and had not received an official offer from his club, despite supporters in Lyon hoping for a return to lead Olympique Lyonnais.

Outlook and Career Impact

The site added that the decision will hinge on what unfolds in the coming days, with Olympique Lyonnais fans dreaming of a Benzema return to lead the club.

Since arriving in Jeddah, Benzema has played 74 matches, scoring 52 and assisting 17, yet injuries have intermittently slowed his participation.

In Spanish media earlier, the striker hinted at potentially staying another season or two, depending on form and the Tigers\' ambitions.

No official offer has appeared, and the captaincy and leadership questions at Al-Ittihad will depend on what the coming weeks bring.

Punchline 1: If contract talks were a goal, Benzema would already be lifting the trophy. Punchline 2: And if the deal stalls, the club can always renew his coffee -- it\'s been brewing longer than the negotiations.