Karim Benzema might depart from Al-Ittihad and make a return to his native club

The forward Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad might leave Saudi Arabia and return to his native club, Lyon, as reported by Todofichajes. The move is anticipated to happen in the summer, at the end of the season.

The French club is said to have already commenced the process of bringing back the star striker. Benzema himself has expressed on numerous occasions his desire to conclude his career in Lyon.

Benzema joined the club from Jeddah in the summer of 2023 as a free agent after departing from Real Madrid. The 36-year-old Frenchman signed a contract until June 2026.

Unofficially, Benzema is rumored to have earned 400 million euros during his two seasons at Al-Ittihad.

During his time at Al-Ittihad, Karim participated in 20 matches across all competitions, scoring 12 goals and providing five assists. Recently, the forward has faced increasing criticism in Saudi Arabia, particularly regarding accusations of not taking matters seriously.

Benzema previously played for Lyon's first team from 2005 to 2009. As part of the team, he netted 66 goals in 148 matches.