'When he's physically ready': Gallardo explains Benzema's absence from the Asian Champions League. The 2022 Ballon d'Or is going through a complicated period and is the target of much criticism within the Saudi club.
The 36-year-old could even have left Al-Ittihad this winter. Several European clubs would have positioned themselves, but a loan to another Saudi club was preferred. Seeing him leave Saudi Arabia would have been a snub for the championship, of which he is one of the headliners.