Benzema substitution fuels clash in Saudi Arabia, transfer doubts

Karim Benzema was taken off by Simone Inzaghi during Al Hilal's opening Saudi Professional League match, a move that sparked visible frustration and has reignited speculation that the French striker could be forced out of Saudi Arabia.

Matchday drama

On the first matchday of the Saudi Professional League, Al Hilal led Al‑Faisaly 3‑2, with Benzema opening the scoring from the penalty spot in the 19th minute.

At the 70th minute Inzaghi decided to substitute the former Real Madrid forward, and before Mohamed Kader Meïté entered the field Benzema began gesturing, shaking his head side‑to‑side and voicing his displeasure.

Rift and transfer rumours

From the bench the dispute continued; cameras caught an assistant coach trying to calm Benzema while the match finished 4‑2 to Al Hilal, after which Inzaghi met the striker, who kept displaying surprise and discontent.

reported that the rift makes Benzema a likely sale in the current market, while Spain’s AS noted that the player does not intend to leave Saudi Arabia and that any move would be a club decision, with Al Hilal reportedly eyeing Ollie Watkins.

Benzema's record and future

This is not Benzema’s first conflict in the Arab world; earlier this year, after leaving Al Ittihad, he felt insulted by a renewal offer and switched clubs, causing unrest in the league.

Signed until mid‑2027, Benzema joined Al Hilal in February, has appeared in 14 games, and recorded 10 goals and five assists, leaving his future with the Saudi side uncertain.