USWNT ratings: Swanson and Davidson open Hayes era in style

Get ready for another decade of Madrid UCL dominance!

Miami ratings: Alba goes supersonic in dramatic draw

How Southgate can solve England's Foden dilemma

Vini Jr has proven he belongs among the world's elite

Bayern warned Kompany won't restore Bundesliga dominance next term

Clubs fear FIFA want to cut Premier League to 18 teams 

Suarez pays tribute to Cavani following international retirement

Reyna announces engagement with touching Instagram post

'Scolded him a little!' - Ancelotti reveals what he told Vinicius

USWNT boss Hayes explains why Morgan absent against Korea

Casey Phair: USWNT hopeful to Korea's World Cup wonderkid

United to deal Arteta a blow by snapping up crucial Arsenal asset

Karim Benzema wants out! Al-Ittihad striker eager for transfer away from 'disappointing' Saudi Pro League

According to<a href="https://www.relevo.com/futbol/liga-arabia-saudi/benzema-espera-clemencia-decepcionante-arabia-20240520155756-nt.html" target="_blank"> Relevo</a>, Benzema has expressed his "disappointment" to his inner circle <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/karim-benzema-heading-back-real-madrid-why-al-ittihad-star-return-former-club-explained/bltcf5d3c8b3958fe48" target="_blank">during his recent trip to Madrid</a> as he is discontent with the low level of competition in the Saudi Pro League, <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/karim-benzema-al-ittihad-team-mates-three-month-goal-drought-response-real-madrid-question/blt30ee57924c0f0b6b" target="_blank">subpar facilities</a>, and a perceived lack of professionalism - which he considers crucial for a top-flight competition. Additionally, the constant harassment from fans has added to the former Real Madrid star's troubles.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Benzema's frustrations have reached a point where he is keen on leaving Al-Ittihad. Nonetheless, he acknowledges that the terms of his contract, which runs until 2026 and is worth €200m (£171m/$217m), complicate his departure.The Saudi investment fund behind the influx of star players to the league remains firm on its strategy. This includes potentially allowing the marquee players to switch teams within the league to maintain competitiveness, but not permitting them to leave the country prematurely. Benzema’s situation illustrates this stance. Hence, despite his desire to leave, his role as a key figure representing the league, the government, and the federation means that his transfer will not be easily sanctioned.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Any possibility of Benzema moving back to <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/furious-karim-benzema-calls-out-liars-europe-transfer-return-links-ex-real-madrid-forward-spat-with-al-ittihad/blt9d6a0d0ef4d6e491" target="_blank">Europe hinges on a significant offer </a>and the Saudi league securing another high-profile player to fill his void. Names like Mohamed Salah have been mentioned as potential replacements as the Egyptian is thought to be an ideal candidate who could represent the league's Muslim identity and can also carry forward the legacy of the league.

DID YOU KNOW?

As Benzema continues to navigate his professional and personal challenges, it remains to be seen how his situation with Al-Ittihad will unfold. For now, he must reconcile his frustrations with his commitments and continue with his Saudi Arabian sojourn - either at Al-Ittihad or at another outfit in the SPL.

WHAT NEXT?

Karim Benzema wants out! Al-Ittihad striker eager for transfer away from 'disappointing' Saudi Pro League | Goal.com US

Karim Benzema reportedly wants a transfer away from Al-Ittihad to end his &quot;disappointing&quot; Saudi Pro League spell.

Karim Benzema wants out! Al-Ittihad striker eager for transfer away from &apos;disappointing&apos; Saudi Pro League