Benzema's Next Move: Al-Ittihad Faces a Final Call on His Future

Contract negotiations intensify as Benzema's future looms

Al-Ittihad's management has drawn a final line on Karim Benzema's future as his contract with the club nears its expiration in 2026.

Speculation is mounting about whether the French striker will stay in the Western Saudi powerhouse or chart a return to Europe.

According to the Saudi newspaper Okaz, Al-Ittihad is actively working to seal a renewal that would extend his deal beyond 2026.

The report notes that the club has held several talks with representatives of the former Real Madrid star to settle the details of a contract extension through 2028.

Officials hope to conclude the renewal before Benzema enters the six-month window starting in January.

The Frenchman reportedly has multiple offers from top clubs if he does not extend with the Tigers.

The Boss's Push and the Youth Refresh

A directive from Sergio Conceicao underscores the priority of keeping Benzema, given his technical level and leadership both on and off the pitch, as the Portuguese coach reshapes the squad after arriving last year.

Conceicao has urged the club to extend Benzema's contract for several more years, arguing that his presence is essential to the team's plan for the season and beyond.

However, his demands have collided with the club's broader strategy to refresh the squad with younger players, a tension acknowledged by club president Fahd Sindi who has said the Tigers need several new elements in multiple positions, especially in attack.

Numbers with Al-Ittihad show Benzema's impact: since arriving in 2023, the 37-year-old has featured in numerous matches across domestic and continental competitions, scoring and assisting at a high rate.

He helped steer the club to a league title and the King's Cup last season and even guided them back to the AFC Champions League spotlight, while also mentoring younger teammates to foster a winning mindset.

Real Madrid could still beckon, as Benzema has left breadcrumbs for a possible return: he told AS that Real Madrid is his team and that he keeps tabs on their progress, noting that Madrid remains his city.

There have even been hints of a sentimental homecoming to Olympique Lyon, with media outlets circulating a doctored image of Benzema in Lyon's jersey and suggesting he could end his career in Ligue 1.

Whatever the path, Benzema's career arc from Lyon to Madrid to Saudi Arabia remains one of football's great odysseys.

Punchlines: If he signs again, the trophy cabinet might need its own passport. And if Madrid calls, they’ll need a bigger calendar to fit his schedule.