Legendary striker Karim Benzema is once again associated with Manchester United and Arsenal, but the Frenchman dismisses claims of wanting to leave Al Ittihad as “completely false.”
Benzema, who signed a three-year contract with Al Ittihad in the summer of 2023, has faced speculations about his discontent in Saudi Arabia. However, the 36-year-old reportedly returned to training after a vacation and has not communicated dissatisfaction to Al Ittihad or expressed a desire to leave.
While reports suggested Benzema requested a “temporary” departure, the French striker clarified, telling L’Equipe, “It’s all nonsense! The French media is at a loss for ideas these days.”
Despite interest from Lyon, his former team, Benzema has attracted attention from Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Arsenal. Any potential departure from Al Ittihad would involve complexities, requiring approval from the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Sport and the club’s coach and sporting director.
Benzema’s agent was set to meet with Al Ittihad’s management after the reported interest from Manchester United and Arsenal. However, Benzema emphasizes the inaccuracies in media reports and refutes any intention of leaving.
Considering his impressive goal-scoring record at Real Madrid, where he scored 354 goals in 14 years, Benzema could be a valuable asset for Premier League clubs seeking goal-scoring alternatives. Manchester United, currently eighth in the Premier League with only 24 goals scored, and Arsenal, vying for the title, could benefit from Benzema’s prowess.
While United has struggled with goal-scoring and player performance, Arsenal’s recent 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace ended a two-game losing streak. Benzema, who has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 15 games for Al Ittihad, could offer valuable contributions to address the goal-scoring challenges faced by these Premier League clubs.
Despite being behind in the Saudi Pro League, Benzema’s potential move to the Premier League would undoubtedly add depth and experience to the attacking options of interested clubs.
