French forward Karim Benzema has finally returned to Saudi Arabia, ending a 17-day absence from his club, Al-Ittihad, according to a source close to the club.
Club officials are reportedly "furious" with the former Real Madrid star's behaviour, particularly as he was expected to check back in during the mid-season break of the Saudi Pro League. Despite this, there are no immediate plans to terminate his contract this month, dispelling speculation linking him with European clubs.
Benzema, 36, departed for a holiday three weeks ago during the league break, and during this period, he deactivated his Instagram account, followed by 76 million users. Another source revealed that the Ballon d'Or winner, reportedly earning 100 million euros ($109 million) annually, had been vacationing in Mauritius until Monday.
The source close to the club disclosed, "Benzema arrived Thursday evening, 17 days late. He should have returned on January 2. We couldn't reach him for 10 days. The club management and the coach are furious with what happened. There will be a meeting with the club board to explain what happened and discuss his future."
Despite the frustration and disappointment with Benzema's delayed return, the source emphasised that he remains the captain of Al-Ittihad and that there is "no option" for him to leave the club. While rumours have circulated about a potential move to Chelsea's Premier League side, the club appears determined to address the situation internally.
Benzema was a prominent signing for the Saudi League last year, joining the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Neymar, and other European stars. The league, owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, has seen some high-profile exits, such as former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, who recently left Al-Ettifaq for Ajax after only 19 games.
Al-Ittihad, currently owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, slipped to seventh in the league table in December after three consecutive defeats, leading to displeasure from supporters, who reportedly booed Benzema. The Saudi Pro League is set to resume on February 7
