Benzema’s Al-Ittihad future in doubt after contract offer includes pay cut | OneFootball

Benzema’s stint with Al-Ittihad appears to be nearing its end. The Frenchman feels cheated and humiliated by the club and has told them he will not play again until his contract situation is resolved.

L’Equipe reports the club had promised a renewal on the same or improved terms, yet the offer on the table includes a significant salary cut.

Benzema has informed Al-Ittihad he will leave at the end of his contract if there is no new proposal.

He sees the stance as disrespectful to his career and current form, having scored 57 goals in 87 games since arriving in Saudi Arabia.

Head coach Sergio Conceiçao has backed him, describing him as an excellent professional, while directing questions to the club and stressing his focus on preparing the team and winning titles.

His decision comes at a difficult moment for Al-Ittihad, who are sixth in the league, 10 points off the Asian Champions League places and 15 from the Saudi Pro League lead. The team won a domestic double last season.

With his contract up in summer, Benzema would be a free agent and could sign for any club. He had wanted to remain in Saudi Arabia, but a return to Europe is now possible.

Source: Superdeporte