Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema has been excluded from the club's roster for their AFC Champions League clash against Uzbekistani team Navbahor amid his strained relationship with manager Marcelo Gallardo. The match will kick off on Thursday, February 15, at the Markaziy Stadium in Namangan, Uzbekistan.
Gallardo clarified that his decision was based on technical considerations. He doesn't think Benzema is physically prepared for the journey to Uzbekistan, citing the former Real Madrid star's delayed return to the team's training camp in Dubai after the Saudi winter break due to being stranded in Mauritius amid a storm.
"[Benzema] is currently training alone, after joining the team several days ago. When he is physically and technically ready, he will undoubtedly join the group. This will most likely happen next week."
Despite Gallardo's assessment, Benzema believes he is in good physical condition and ready to participate.
Regarded as one of the greatest strikers of all-time, the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner has netted nine goals in 15 league appearances this season. Despite his individual success, his team currently holds the fifth position in the league table, trailing 22 points behind the leaders, Al-Hilal.
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Karim Benzema's feud with his coach
Reports of an ongoing dispute between Benzema and Gallardo have persisted for some time. Last month, a heated meeting took place involving the player, the club, and the Argentinian coach.
Benzema expressed to his coach and club management that the pressure at Al-Ittihad hinders his ability to perform at his best.
Another report from last week claimed the 36-year-old allegedly stormed out of a training session due to another disagreement with the manager.
Since Gallardo assumed the club's managerial role from Portuguese coach Nuno Espírito Santo last November, sources have suggested that the Argentine coach has been dissatisfied with Benzema's mindset during training and has been critical of his performance.
Will Karim Benzema Leave Saudi Arabia?
During the January winter transfer window, speculations arose that Benzema was contemplating a departure from Saudi Arabia.
Sources indicated he wanted to leave Al-Ittihad temporarily and seek a change in atmosphere. Al-Ittihad proposed a loan option to another Saudi Pro League club, but the French striker declined.
Reports from England suggested that Premier League club Chelsea expressed interest in securing Benzema on loan during the winter transfer window, with Arsenal and Manchester United also reportedly interested.
On the other hand, his former club in France, Lyon, reportedly could not afford his wages, according to their spokesperson.
According to Ben Jacobs of CBS Sports, Benzema is engaged in ongoing discussions with Al-Ittihad this week about their summer plans and address any lingering issues after a challenging January.
The consensus from both Al-Ittihad and influential figures in Saudi Arabia is a desire for Benzema to continue for another season in the oil-rich kingdom.
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