Saudi newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat revealed that the relationship between French striker Karim Benzema and his coach at Al-Ittihad, Nuno Santo, is strained due to the Portuguese coach's style of play. Informed sources disclosed to the Saudi newspaper that "Santo made it clear that Benzema does not fit his playing style and did not request to sign him." Meanwhile, Benzema expressed to the Saudi negotiator, who convinced him to come to Saudi Arabia, his discomfort and feelings of being treated unprofessionally by the Portuguese coach.
Benzema requested to be given the captain's armband, citing his extensive experience on the field and his status as the team's star, as he understood it. However, coach Santo rejected this request, opting instead for Brazilian Romarinho and then Ahmed Sharahili. The source mentioned that "Benzema had asked for the captain's armband in front of his teammates at Al-Ittihad."
The former Real Madrid captain and Ballon d'Or holder met with Saudi negotiator Saad Al-Lathid, who was involved in bringing him to Saudi Arabia this summer, and asked him to find a solution to the issues he is facing with coach Santo. Benzema had a standout performance in the King Salman Clubs Cup, scoring three goals and contributing to another goal, but he has yet to score in the Roshn Saudi League, missing out on scoring in Al-Ittihad's victories over Al-Raed and Al-Tai.
