Karim Benzema is the epitome of soccer elegance. The French striker reaffirmed his already impressive legacy with the Ballon d’Or win in 2022. Besides his silky touch and game intelligence, one of the Frenchman’s biggest attributes has been his never-say-never attitude. Regardless of the match situation, Karim is always dangerous and is a difference-maker, and his mentality infuses confidence into his teammates. However, the latest comments on Karim Benzema following Al Ittihad’s Club World Cup exit are ones you wouldn’t expect.

Al Ittihad was one of the main contenders for the CWC, along with Man City. They started well with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Auckland City. However, the match against Al Ahly proved disappointing as they lost 3-1, leading to their exit from the tournament. Karim Benzema had a disappointing night, and the criticism is pouring in for the Al Ittihad man.

Nayef Hazazi feels that Karim Benzema is ‘not being able to fight’

It’s safe to say that former Al Taawoun star, Nayef Hazazi, wasn’t a fan of Karim Benzema’s recent display as per his comments. The striker said, “Imagine that I am an Al-Ittihad player on the bench, otherwise I am young, and I see my captain Benzema being weak and hiding behind the defenders and not being able to fight. How can I do something when this is my captain?.” Could Hazazi be implying that Karim Benzema is not the ideal role model for all the youngsters around him?

Moreover, Hazazi started his professional career at Al Ittihad in 2006. It is very much possible that the Saudi International was just disappointed at his former club’s performance. After all, despite enjoying 57% possession and having 15 shots, Al Ittihad could only muster a single goal. An inefficient night for the attackers.

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Yet, the tournament offered some bright moments for the Frenchman as he made history by becoming the first player to score in 4 editions of the tournament. Also, the CWC was a golden opportunity for Karim Benzema to win his 6th CWC, a feat previously achieved only by Toni Kroos. His coach wasn’t too pleased as well after the elimination. As per the words of Marcelo Gallardo, Karim has none to blame except himself.

A missed penalty – The difference maker, perhaps a season definer for Benzema?

The Al Ittihad star missed a crucial penalty that proved to be fatal. Although he did score in the later minutes, this was the defining moment as per his coach. Marcelo Gallardo explained, “We had a penalty kick that Karim Benzema did not score, and this made things difficult for us physically. We had opportunities in second but failed to take it.”

“(Karim) Benzema is a Waste” – After Missing Penalty vs Al Ahly in Club World Cup, Al Ittihad Star Blasted Over Exit

Although his recent form hasn’t been promising, the Frenchman has had a great season overall with 12 goals and 4 assists in 18 games. Also, previous coach Nuno Espirito Santo was sacked midway through the season and players are still getting used to playing under his replacement. Hence, it would be too soon to judge Benzema & Co by their recent performances, as the reigning SPL champions will display their class sooner rather than later.

Is the criticism of Karim Benzema over the top? Let us know in the comments below.

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