Benzema Drama: Could This Be the Club's Biggest Slip?
2 February 2026
Transfer uncertainty surrounds Benzema’s future
Saudi football fans are watching Karim Benzema’s future with keen interest as he nears a potential midseason switch to Al-Hilal while still with Al-Ittihad. Talks have reportedly stalled over contract terms and the longer-term plan, keeping the outcome unclear as the winter window closes.
Al-Hilal in early talks, Ittihad at a crossroads
Sources say Al-Hilal has a preliminary agreement to sign Benzema until the end of the season, with final tweaks still needed. The prospect would pit Benzema against former rivals in a high-stakes duel across two major competitions, adding extra spice to an already fiery season.
Reaction from the Saudi football community
In coverage by Samir Badr, Hamad Al-Muntashri, a legendary figure at Al-Ittihad, commented on a local show that a move to Al-Hilal before the winter window could be viewed as a historic slip for the club, even if the rivalry on the field remains intact.
He added: it would be hard to accept Benzema moving to a direct rival, especially if it harms Al-Ittihad’s chances in the Roshen League title.
Al-Hilal’s pursuit is framed as a bid to challenge Al-Ittihad for both the King’s Cup and Asia’s elite competitions, creating a demanding test for Benzema’s adaptability and experience.
As the winter mercato intensifies, fans watch for each word from the two Saudi giants. If Benzema signs with Al-Hilal, the drama writes itself; if not, the rumor mill keeps serving hot chatter every day.
Punchline 1: If Benzema signs for Al-Hilal, the transfer window will need a bigger calendar and stronger coffee.
Punchline 2: If he stays, the rumor mill gets another season pass—because suspense is apparently the fastest thing in this league.
