Lyon ‘to consider’ Karim Benzema return, ambassador deal blocks comeback | OneFootball

Karim Benzema's hopes of a Lyon homecoming this summer were halted by off-pitch obligations in Saudi Arabia.

L'Équipe reports that Lyon seriously considered re-signing the 38-year-old and that he was keen, even ready to play a full season without pay.

The club explored the deal, and interest around the player aligned, but his active Al-Hilal contract initially stood in the way. About a week ago that agreement was ended by mutual consent, making him a free agent.

His spell in Saudi Arabia delivered a league title, two cups and the competition's best player award, but a return still did not materialise.

He remains committed to the Saudi league as an ambassador until 2030, a role he is keen to honour and which, for now, prevents him from signing a professional contract in another country.

Benzema maintains strong ties with Lyon, regularly returning to the city where he grew up before leaving in 2009 for Real Madrid.

He has previously said he was hesitant to go back because he departed on a high note and sometimes it is better to leave things untouched.

Source: Goal.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”