Benzema Scores First Saudi Pro League Goal Amid Sack Reports at Al Ittihad

Karim Benzema has achieved his inaugural goal in the Saudi Pro League after being unable to score in his previous two matches. His recent goal was netted against Al Riyadh. This accomplishment follows reports indicating that his relationship with Al-Ittihad's manager, Nuno Espirito Santo, had been quite strained.

Karim Benzema put an end to his goal-scoring dry spell in the Saudi Pro League by successfully finding the back of the net for the first time while playing for Al-Ittihad against Al Riyadh on Thursday night.

Benzema, whose continuity at Ittihad has been a topic of speculation, marked his debut goal in the premier Saudi football division after participating in three matches.

Despite making a strong start at Ittihad with three goals during his initial appearances in the 2023 Arab Cup, he had encountered difficulties in scoring since the commencement of the 2023-24 Saudi League season.

Nonetheless, the reigning Ballon d'Or recipient seems to have mended any alleged differences with manager Nuno Espirito Santo, as he successfully scored with an assist from Romarinho.

He would be optimistic that his first goal signals the start of a goal-scoring spree, aiming to assist the Tigers in their quest to retain their league title this season.

However, they face fierce competition from rivals Neymar's Al-Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr.

Santo wants Benzema sacked

According to reports from the Saudi Arabian newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, Nuno Espirito Santo has informed the Al-Ittihad board that his tactical approach is not well-suited to Karim Benzema's style of play.

Santo reportedly told the board that the Frenchman doesn't align with his preferred playing style.

Furthermore, it's worth noting that Santo was not the driving force behind Benzema's acquisition, leading to notable tension within the team's locker room.