‘I have six months left, I’m focused on that’ – Karim Benzema remains coy on his Al-Ittihad future | OneFootball

France international striker Karim Benzema (38) has discussed his future at Al-Ittihad in a recent interview with L’Équipe. Rumours around the Ballon d’Or winner’s future have increased in recent weeks as he enters the last six months of his contract with the Saudi Pro League club, meaning he will be free to join a club as a free agent at the end of the season. 

Benzema joined Al-Ittihad on a free transfer from Real Madrid in 2023, signing an eyewateringly large contract in the process. During his time in Saudi Arabia, the Frenchman has scored 49 goals and registered 17 assists in 74 appearances. It has not always been easy for the striker, with injury issues and criticism from the press following him during his time with the Saudi outfit. 

The Lyon academy graduate’s time with Al-Ittihad could be about to come to an end. With rumours of the Frenchman signing a new contract with the club, Benzema denied that a new deal had been agreed and said the following on his future, “I’m really focused on what I’m doing, whether it’s for these last six months or for after if I extend my contract. Some people are better placed to talk about all that. Right now, I have six months left on my contract, so I’m completely focused on football.”

GFFN | Liam Wraith