French striker Karim Benzema, playing for Al-Ittihad, has faced harsh media criticism due to his declining performance with the club this season. Benzema joined Al-Ittihad during the last summer transfer window after a historic 14-year stint with Real Madrid but has failed to deliver the expected level of play so far.
He has scored two own goals, missed four penalty kicks, and recorded 12 goals and 8 assists in 25 matches across various competitions. Regarding this matter, former Al-Nasr and Al-Ahli star Hussein Abdulghani stated: "Benzema is a big player and name in the stadiums, but he has not added anything to Al-Ittihad since his arrival." He added in statements on the "Dourina Ghir" program: "Benzema is trying, but not in the required manner. He has clearly changed from his previous period with Real Madrid."
For his part, Al-Ittihad legend Mohammad Noor shared on the same program: "Benzema does not show the fans his desire to play and give all he has in the matches." He continued: "This matter angers me greatly, and there are no excuses in this regard. He must help the Al-Ittihad team." Noor concluded by criticizing the club's management for their dealings and renewing contracts with young players, stating: "Don't lie to us with these names; you must bring in players who can compete like the other teams."
