Karim Benzema, captain of Al-Ittihad, confirmed that he is very happy in the Saudi Professional League and currently has no plans to leave for any other club or league, regardless of the offers he receives.
The 38-year-old’s contract with Al-Ittihad expires at the end of the current season, and negotiations are already underway between the club and the player to renew his stay, given the significant impact the Real Madrid legend has had both on and off the pitch.
Benzema has been linked with several European clubs recently, with some reports even suggesting that José Mourinho wanted to sign him for Benfica. However, the French star has made it clear that he has no intention of leaving Al-Ittihad at this time.
Benzema stated in media interviews, “I am currently with Al-Ittihad, and I am very happy, without a doubt. I am staying here, and my goal is to help the team and my teammates perform at their best.”
He added, “As the team captain and the oldest player, I try to do everything I can to help them, because they are like my younger brothers. I feel happy and comfortable with them, and our goal is to continue achieving good results.”
Al-Ittihad started the season modestly, but in recent weeks they have regained their balance, and their latest positive result was a 1-0 victory over Al-Taawoun, who are currently in third place.
Benzema commented on this, saying, “We did a good job against Al-Taawoun, and we fought until the end. Our goal is to continue in the same vein. We are like a family, and the fans support us wonderfully. I hope they continue to support us.”
He concluded, “The competition is not easy, but we shouldn’t focus on the points difference with Al-Nassr, who are in first place. We are trying to win one match at a time, and we will see what happens in the end.”
Al-Ittihad currently sits in fifth place in the Saudi Pro League standings with 23 points, eight points behind league leaders Al-Nassr. The club has also reached the semi-finals of the King’s Cup and is close to qualifying for the Round of 16 in the AFC Champions League.
