Karim Benzema Transfer Rumors: Will He Leave Al-Ittihad in 2025?

adminMay 18, 202506 mins

Karim Benzema Al-Ittihad striker transfer rumors 2025 have surged in recent days following reports suggesting the French legend is unhappy in the Saudi Pro League. After just one season with Al-Ittihad, speculation has emerged that Benzema may be considering a move back to Europe or even early retirement.

Benzema’s 2024-2025 Season So Far

Karim Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in June 2023 on a lucrative deal after leaving Real Madrid. Despite initial excitement, his form has been inconsistent. Injuries and tactical changes under new coach Marcelo Gallardo have affected his impact.

In 24 league appearances, he scored 10 goals and provided 5 assists. While respectable, these numbers are far from the standards Benzema set at Real Madrid, where he won the Ballon d’Or in 2022.

Rumors of a Return to Europe

According to multiple sources, several European clubs are closely monitoring the situation. Lyon, his boyhood club, is reportedly preparing a proposal for a six-month loan deal. Premier League sides like Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked.

However, Benzema’s current salary in Saudi Arabia could pose a major obstacle for any potential move.

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Speculation About Retirement

Some insiders suggest that Benzema is also considering retiring from professional football altogether. At 37, he has little left to prove. After winning five Champions League titles and countless individual awards, walking away now could be a dignified exit.

However, those close to him say he still wants to play at the highest level, preferably in a competitive European league.

Al-Ittihad’s Stand on the Matter

Al-Ittihad’s management has remained tight-lipped about the situation. In a recent press conference, Gallardo said, “Benzema is a top player, and we want him to stay. The rumors are part of football, but we focus on results.”

Despite this, fans have expressed concern over Benzema’s body language and perceived lack of motivation during games.

Legacy at Real Madrid

Before his move to Saudi Arabia, Benzema spent 14 seasons with Real Madrid. He scored 354 goals in 648 appearances and became the club’s second all-time top scorer. His chemistry with Cristiano Ronaldo and later his leadership role were pivotal in Madrid’s dominance in the 2010s and early 2020s.

His 2021-2022 season was particularly historic. He led Madrid to a Champions League title and won the Ballon d’Or for his efforts.

Fan Reactions and Social Buzz

Social media has been flooded with reactions. Hashtags like #BenzemaToLyon and #ReturnOfTheKing have trended on X (formerly Twitter). Fans are divided. Some believe he should return to Europe to end his career where it started. Others think he should remain in Saudi Arabia and help grow the league’s reputation.

What Could Happen Next?

As the summer transfer window approaches, Benzema’s future will remain under the spotlight. If a European club can negotiate a wage reduction, a dramatic return could be on the cards. Otherwise, fans might have to accept that this could be Benzema’s final season as a professional footballer.

Final Thoughts

Karim Benzema has already etched his name in football history. Whether he retires, returns to Europe, or stays in Saudi Arabia, his legacy remains untouchable. The coming weeks will reveal the next chapter in the remarkable story of one of football’s modern greats.