Karim Benzema is back at Real Madrid to address injury concerns. The Frenchman, who won the 2022 Ballon d'Or, has struggled to stay fit with Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.
What happened?
Benzema joined Al Ittihad on a lucrative three-year contract last summer, but his debut campaign has been marred by injuries and inconsistent appearances.
Why it matters for Karim Benzema
Al Ittihad are 30 points behind rivals Al Hilal, with Benzema's absence contributing to the team's struggles in the league. He has totalled 21 goal contributions in 29 outings, but the team's performance has been disappointing.
What comes next?
Benzema has returned to Madrid for further treatment, with Al Ittihad confirming that he is undergoing examinations in Real Madrid's clinic with his former doctor in Spain. He is expected to return next week.
Benzema's storied 14-year Real Madrid tenure saw him win every available honour in the game, including four Champions Leagues and the 2022 Ballon d'Or. His return to Real Madrid is a bid to cure his injury problems and get back to his best form.
On May 2, 2024, Al Ittihad wrote in a statement that Benzema's consultations were arranged between Ittihad's medical teams and Real Madrid regarding his injuries. The statement confirmed that Benzema has already left for Spain and is expected to return next week.
Benzema's injury concerns have been a major issue for Al Ittihad this season, with the team struggling to find consistency without him. His return to fitness will be crucial for the team's chances of success in the league.
Toby Cudworth, Lead Editor for SI FC, reported that Benzema's debut campaign in Saudi Arabia has been anything but ideal. With rumours of a falling out with manager Marcelo Gallardo, Benzema has struggled to stay fit and string together a consistent run of appearances.
Benzema's individual numbers have been impressive, with 21 goal contributions in 29 outings. However, the team's performance has been disappointing, and his absence has been felt. His return to Real Madrid for treatment is a bid to overcome his injury concerns and get back to his best form.
The 36-year-old Frenchman will be hoping to return to fitness soon and help Al Ittihad improve their performance in the league. With his experience and skill, he will be a key player for the team in the upcoming fixtures.
Benzema's return to Real Madrid for treatment is a significant development in his career, and it will be interesting to see how he performs in the upcoming season. With his injury concerns addressed, he will be looking to get back to his best form and help Al Ittihad succeed in the league.