Saudi media personality Waleed Al-Faraj has launched a strong public criticism of Karim Benzema, describing the French striker as a disruptive figure inside Al-Hilal despite his performances since joining the club earlier this year.
Speaking during his television programme, Al-Faraj questioned the sporting value of Benzema’s move from Al-Ittihad Club to Al-Hilal during the winter transfer window.
The comments have intensified debate surrounding the former Ballon d’Or winner at a crucial stage of the Saudi Pro League season, with Al-Hilal still fighting for the championship heading into the final round.
Al-Faraj said: “Benzema’s transfer to Al-Hilal was not beneficial, and when he left Al-Ittihad (they broke a water jug behind him). He is like a (fireball) that moves from one club to another. He may be beneficial in terms of marketing, but he does not provide the required technical benefit.”
The television presenter also compared Benzema to another striker currently playing in Saudi football, suggesting that Ivan Toney would have represented a stronger footballing option for Al-Hilal had the player moved from Al-Ahli Saudi FC.
Al-Faraj added: “If Ivan Toni had moved from Al-Ahli to Al-Hilal, it would have been a good deal technically, unlike Karim Benzema, but things will be very different next season.”
He further claimed that Benzema no longer wished to remain at Al-Ittihad and suggested the atmosphere inside the Jeddah-based club had contributed heavily to the player’s departure.
According to Al-Faraj, tensions within Al-Ittihad extended beyond Benzema and also affected fellow French international N’Golo Kanté.
He said: “Karim Benzema refused to stay at Al-Ittihad , and the public interest required him to move to Al-Hilal. The atmosphere inside the Jeddah club is the main reason for his departure, in addition to his compatriot N’Golo Kante.”
The presenter also argued that the atmosphere inside Al-Ittihad had changed significantly compared to the previous season, leading several players to consider leaving the club during the winter transfer market.
After terminating his contract with Al-Ittihad, Benzema joined Al-Hilal at the beginning of February, marking his second experience in the Saudi Pro League.
Despite the criticism, the French striker has produced notable numbers since arriving in Riyadh.
Benzema has featured in 13 matches for Al-Hilal this season, scoring nine goals and providing five assists.
However, reports indicate that the striker could miss Al-Hilal’s decisive final league match against Al-Fayha FC on Thursday evening.
The match, scheduled in Al-Majma’ah, represents a crucial fixture in the title race as Al-Hilal attempt to keep alive their hopes of winning the league crown.
To secure the championship, Al-Hilal must defeat Al-Fayha while also relying on Al-Nassr FC dropping points against Damac FC.
With the title race entering its final hours, Al-Faraj’s comments have added further pressure and controversy around one of the league’s highest-profile players at a decisive moment in the Saudi season.
