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French forward Karim Benzema has refused to play for Al-Ittihad shortly before their Saudi Pro League match on Friday, following a contract proposal he found “disrespectful.”

Benzema marks a goal during Al-Ittihad’s victory over Al-Taawoun on February 6, 2025. Image provided by Al-Ittihad

The future of the 2022 Ballon d’Or recipient has been a topic of discussion, as his existing contract is set to end in June. Despite the club’s promise of an extension since last summer, no official action was taken until Thursday, just days before the January transfer window shut.

According to RMC, the plan put forward by Al-Ittihad’s football director Michael Emenalo surprised the French player. The offer reportedly did not include a basic salary, with Benzema’s income depending solely on image rights. People connected to the player called the conditions “absurd” and an indication of disrespect for his career and standing.

As a reply, Benzema notified the club that he would not be available for the game against Al-Fateh.ESPNreported that the forward believes the offer is a disrespect. He mentioned that he won’t return to the field until the club submits a dignified proposal.

The strike represents a major setback for manager Sergio Conceição, who is losing his captain and main forward at a crucial moment in the season. Al-Ittihad’s management is said to have been caught off guard by the incident, leaving them with few choices right before the match began.

The conflict between Benzema and the club’s management has been ongoing for a while. After moving to Al-Ittihad from Real Madrid in 2023 with a highly profitable contract valued at up to $108 million annually, Benzema became one of the league’s top earners. Nevertheless, his time in Saudi Arabia has been challenging, characterized by physical issues and negative comments from regional media.

With the situation reaching a critical stage, the striker’s decision not to participate indicates a possible conclusion to his tenure in Saudi Arabia unless a solution is reached soon.