Benzema’s Comeback Conundrum: Will the French Icon Ignite Against Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League?
24 October 2025
What to Watch
All eyes are on the Al-Enmaa Stadium as Al-Ittihad hosts Al-Hilal in the sixth round of the Saudi Pro League, a clash packed with tactical battles and personal stakes for Karim Benzema, who finds himself at a crossroads in his Saudi chapter.
For Benzema, this match is more than a routine league fixture; it's a real chance to prove himself and rebuild confidence after a tough spell, especially amid relentless criticism following his move from Europe.
Fans no longer see the calm captain of Madrid; they see a player searching for himself amid pressure, injuries, and a demand for performances that match his big salary.
In recent weeks Benzema faced unprecedented scrutiny after a subdued showing against Al-Fayha, including a missed penalty that could have handed Al-Ittihad the win, leaving the game at 1-1.
He also missed three clear chances and lost the ball eight times, earning a low 6.3/10 rating as he left the pitch to a chorus of grumbles.
Injuries added to the mix when a muscle issue sidelined him for a challenge in the AFC Champions League, raising questions about his readiness for the desert clash with Al-Hilal.
Context and Stakes
Coach Sérgio Conceição has stressed that Benzema's presence remains a major edge for the team, offering leadership, vision, and a link between lines that helps unlock defenses.
Historically, Benzema has a strong record against Al-Hilal, with five goals in five matches since joining Saudi Arabia in this spell, including league and cup goals.
His influence extends beyond numbers: in past European seasons he showed his ability to affect the big games with a single smart movement or pass, a trait he still brings to the Saudi side.
There is also off-field talk; Turkish clubs have been linked to a possible move, with reports suggesting discussions about his contract ending this season and a potential switch to Turkey if results don't improve.
On the field, Benzema knows this match could decide his future at the club. Al-Ittihad sit sixth with 10 points, while Al-Hilal sit fifth with 11 points and without a defeat, making it a high-stakes meeting for both teams.
Four days later, Al-Ittihad play Al-Nassr in the King Cup Round of 16, turning this clash into a double test: restore league momentum and safeguard morale ahead of the domestic cup.
In short, the Enmaa clash is more than three points; it’s a confidence battle between Benzema’s storied past and the present pressure, a potential fresh start or a stepping stone toward a European return.
Punchline 1: If Benzema finds his scoring touch again, the net will start charging him rent.
Punchline 2: If not, well... at least his transfer rumors will finally get a plot twist worthy of a telenovela.
