Karim Benzema has made his position crystal clear to Al-Hilal's hierarchy: he will not accept a peripheral role at the Saudi Pro League club. The French striker, who arrived at the Saudi outfit in January 2024, is now in direct talks with the board to clarify his status ahead of the upcoming season, according to reports from journalist Ben Jacobs.
The central issue revolves around squad registration and playing time. Al-Hilal have considered a proposal that would register Benzema exclusively for AFC Champions League Elite competition while excluding him from domestic squad lists. The 36-year-old former Real Madrid icon has emphatically rejected this scenario, demanding guaranteed first-team opportunities in the Roshn Saudi Pro League itself.
Transfer Window Complications
Benzema's future depends significantly on Al-Hilal's incoming transfer activity. The club is actively scouting new centre-forwards in the summer window, and any high-profile strikers arriving could reshape the attacking pecking order. This uncertainty has created a pivotal moment for the player and organization alike.
His maiden campaign at Al-Hilal yielded disappointing results in decisive matches. Despite his presence, the Saudi giants failed to capture the domestic league title or claim the AFC Champions League Elite trophy—both objectives the club had pursued aggressively. Since joining the Middle East, Benzema has struggled to replicate the prolific form that defined his success in European football, where he won the Ballon d'Or in 2022.
- Benzema seeks assurances over consistent first-team selection
- Club exploring options for new centre-forward signings
- AFC Champions League Elite registration debate ongoing
- Al-Hilal missed domestic and continental silverware last season
The standoff reflects deeper questions about player management at elite Saudi clubs attempting to blend veteran international names with trophy ambitions. How Al-Hilal resolves Benzema's situation could signal their priorities heading into a crucial season where they will aim to reclaim supremacy domestically and compete seriously in Asia's premier club competition.
