Karim Benzema's Saudi adventure has now reportedly taken a dramatic turn, with the striker said to be uncomfortable in his new environment.
The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner helped open the gates to a massive influx of globally recognised players joining Saudi teams in this transfer window after completing a big-money move to Al Ittihad in June.
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The striker was given a rousing welcome upon his arrival, and was paraded in front of thousands of fans at his unveiling ceremony after 14 years at Real Madrid.
The 25-year-old penned a three-year deal with Ittihad that sees him earn almost £200 million (R4.7 billion) a season, according to talkSPORT.
However, just two games into the 2023/24 Saudi Pro League campaign, cracks are reportedly beginning to appear.
According to Saudi newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, Benzema is not comfortable working in the current environment at Al-Ittihad, which has led to speculation that a shock exit could be on the cards after just two months with team.
It is said the forward's relationship with manager Nuno Espirito Santo has soured after the Portuguese boss refused to hand him the captain's armband when he asked for it.
The head coach is also believed to have told his superiors that the Frenchman does not fit into his plans for the team.
It is further claimed that Santo did not ask for Benzema to be signed in the first place, with the tension between the pair now leaving the latter in a unique predicament and possibly on the verge of leaving the reigning Saudi champions just two months in.
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To add to his frustrations, the centre-forward is also yet to score in his first two league games with the team, managing just one assist so far.
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