Not selected by his club for the round of 16 first leg of the Asian Champions League, Karim Benzema is champing at the bit at Al-Ittihad.
The 2022 Ballon d'Or is going through a complicated period and is the target of much criticism within the Saudi club.
The day before the match against the Uzbek club Navbahor Namangan, Marcelo Gallardo spoke of the Frenchman's absence on Wednesday at a press conference.
“He is currently training alone, after joining the team a few days ago.
When he is ready physically and technically, he will undoubtedly join the group, most probably next week,” detailed the Argentine coach.
In January, Karim Benzema returned late from his vacation, officially stuck on Mauritius.
An uncertain future
He had missed the resumption of training with Al-Ittihad and was excluded from the pre-season camp by his coach.
Beyond this affair, the five-time winner of the Champions League with Real Madrid is criticized for his level of play. Many supporters believe that he does not get involved enough on the pitch.
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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.
Even if his club's results are disappointing.
He is currently in fifth place in the Saudi Pro League.