Benzema Scores First Saudi League Goal Amid Al Ittihad Sack Reports

• Karim Benzema has notched his first goal in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad
• He had drawn blank in his previous two outings before his goal against Al-Riyadh
• Benzema's goal comes on the back of reports suggesting his coach wants him out

Karim Benzema finally broke his goal-scoring drought in the Saudi Pro League, scoring his first goal for Al-Ittihad against Al-Riyadh on Thursday night.

Benzema, whose future at the Saudi club has been the subject of intense speculation, marked his debut goal in the top flight after three appearances.

Although the 35-year-old made a strong start for Al-Ittihad with three goals in his initial games of the 2023 Arab Cup, he struggled to find the back of the net once the 2023-24 league season kicked off.

Nevertheless, the current Ballon d'Or holder has seemingly resolved any reported differences with manager, Nuno Espirito Santo, as he scored with an assist from Romarinho.

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Benzema 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 their rivals: Neymar's Al-Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr.

Santo reportedly wants Benzema sacked

Sports Brief also reported that according to Saudi Arabian newspaper, Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, Santo wants Benzema out of Al-Ittihad.

It was claimed the coach approached the club's board, stating his tactical approach did not align with the French star's style of play.

Santo was also not the driving force behind the acquisition of Benzema, reportedly leading to tension within the team locker room.

Al Ittihad debunks Benzema exit talks

However, as Sports Brief also reported, Al-Ittihad has quashed speculations surrounding Benzema amid claims he would be departing the Saudi Pro League club due to tension with his coach.

The reigning Saudi Pro League champions have refuted these claims, asserting that Benzema remains content and sharing a brief video clip of the forward smiling at one of the club's facilities.