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“The report also highlights that Santo wasn’t the driving force behind Benzema’s acquisition, which has created friction between the coach and the player. Additionally, there are claims that Benzema expressed a desire for the captaincy at Al-Ittihad, but Nuno declined to grant him that position.”
*Karim Benzema
PEGASUS REPORTERS, LAGOS | AUGUST 25, 2023
Reports indicate that former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema’s transition to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad has hit a roadblock due to a mismatch between his playing characteristics and the tactical approach of coach Nuno Espirito Santo. Despite his impressive career and recent move, Benzema’s playing style reportedly doesn’t align well with Santo’s tactics, leading to tensions within the team.
Benzema left Real Madrid in June after 14 years and joined Al-Ittihad on a two-and-a-half-year contract. He has made two appearances for the Saudi club so far, contributing an assist in a 3-0 victory. However, Saudi Arabian newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat revealed that Nuno Espirito Santo expressed to the club’s board that Benzema’s style of play doesn’t suit his tactical preferences.
The report also highlights that Santo wasn’t the driving force behind Benzema’s acquisition, which has created friction between the coach and the player. Additionally, there are claims that Benzema expressed a desire for the captaincy at Al-Ittihad, but Nuno declined to grant him that position.
Given the reported disagreements and tensions, some speculate that the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner could potentially consider leaving Al-Ittihad sooner than expected. The situation is being closely watched, as such disagreements between players and coaches often result in a change within the team, either involving the player or the coach. Benzema’s move to the Saudi Pro League during the summer transfer window surprised the football world, and his current challenges at Al-Ittihad raise questions about the dynamics of his transition to a new footballing environment and the complexities of aligning with a coach’s tactical vision.
By Aleogho Carl-Abu’Bakar
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