ar- العربية As Al Ittihad gears up for the new season, one thing remains unchanged: the unwavering leadership of captain Karim Benzema. The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, who became the face of Saudi football during the transformative 2023 summer transfer window, enters the 2024-25 Roshn Saudi League with renewed energy and a clear mission.
Benzema’s determination has been bolstered by the influx of talent at the club. With the arrival of familiar faces from France and other international stars, Al Ittihad is set on making a strong comeback after a challenging previous season.
Last season, the Jeddah-based club, once untouchable, found itself in a tough spot, finishing fifth in the league. Despite a strong start, they ended the 2023-24 campaign five points shy of qualifying for Asian football and a distant 37 points behind league champions Al Hilal. However, this off-season saw significant changes, including the appointment of experienced manager Laurent Blanc and the addition of key players like Algerian playmaker Houssem Aouar, France international winger Moussa Diaby, and Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic. Local talents such as Saleh Al Shehri and Muath Faqeehi have also joined the ranks.
In an exclusive interview with the Saudi Pro League, Benzema shared his optimism for the season ahead. “This year, we’re all united with one goal: to perform well and win trophies,” the former Real Madrid captain stated. “There won’t be any unnecessary complications; everyone is working together.”
Benzema highlighted the positive atmosphere within the squad, noting that the team’s cohesion, from starters to substitutes, is stronger than ever. “We’ve seen many changes this season, with new players and a new coach, but we’re in the best possible shape,” he said.
Reflecting on the new arrivals, Benzema expressed confidence in his teammates. “I feel great, and the players who have joined are familiar to me. I’ve played with Diaby in the national team, and I know Houssem from our time at Lyon. Rajko and I faced each other in La Liga. These are players who have experience in Europe, who understand pressure and ambition. It’s great for the Saudi Pro League and for our club. It shows we’re here to win.”
Al Ittihad’s previous season, despite high expectations, didn’t meet the club’s lofty standards. After winning their first RSL title in nine years at the end of the 2022-23 season, the club brought in stars like Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Fabinho, and Felipe Luiz. However, the campaign fell short, leading to the departure of manager Nuno Espirito Santo and a brief stint under Marcelo Gallardo.
Benzema acknowledged the challenges of last season but emphasized the lessons learned. “I don’t dwell on the past, but it’s true we had issues. We weren’t focused enough on football. We need to use those setbacks as motivation to bounce back, which we’ve done during the pre-season with significant changes.”
He stressed the importance of looking forward while learning from past mistakes. “The team needed a shake-up, and now we’re more ambitious and united. When you have that, it’s 11 against 11 on the pitch, and we’re ready.”
Blanc, who takes the reins from Gallardo, is tasked with guiding Al Ittihad back to the top. The former World Cup winner brings a wealth of experience, having managed top European clubs and spending time in the Middle East with Qatar’s Al Rayyan. Benzema, who knows Blanc well, believes their relationship will be key to the team’s success. “Blanc is well-respected in Europe and Qatar. His style of play, building from the back and creating opportunities, is something I’ve always admired. He’s close to his players and values every member of the squad equally, which is crucial for us.”
As one of the most decorated players in football, Benzema’s role will be pivotal in Al Ittihad’s quest for success this season. In his debut year in Saudi Arabia, he scored nine goals in 21 league appearances. Now, with the pressure on to deliver, Benzema is embracing the challenge. “I’ve faced pressure since I was a child, playing for a professional club. But I see it as ambition, not pressure. This season, I want to turn that ambition into results, to help my team win, with the support of my teammates.”
Benzema’s confidence and determination are sure to resonate with Al Ittihad’s passionate supporters. Known for their fervent backing, the fans will be expecting more from their team this season, starting with their opening match against newly promoted Al Kholood.
“The relationship with the fans is strong,” Benzema said. “They always want more, which is natural. As players, it’s our job to deliver. The fans are our 12th man, and they do it well. This season, we’ll make them proud.”
To hear more from Benzema, including his thoughts on mentoring Al Ittihad’s young players, life in Jeddah, and his commitment to Saudi Arabia beyond his playing career, stay tuned.