Al Hilal: Karim Benzema already angry with Simone Inzaghi

Last Friday, Karim Benzema made his mark as a goalscorer for Al Hilal in the opening match of the 2026-2027 Saudi Pro League season.

However, the former Real Madrid star was substituted twenty minutes from time for Kader Meïté against Al Faisaly (4-2). Karim Benzema did not hide his frustration as he made his way to the bench—a moment that was heavily analyzed and discussed across Saudi Arabia. For his part, Simone Inzaghi tried to defuse the controversy during his press conference.

"We talked about it after the match. It’s normal for him to want to play every game, and I understand that because I was a striker myself. But at that point in the game, we had another young player available, Kader Meïté, who represents the club’s future, and he had worked hard all week, so it was the right moment to bring him on. I was joking with Karim after the match, and I have a respectful relationship with him, because he’s not just a great champion, but also a true professional," the Italian manager told the media.

Read also: Al Nassr: "this is the last year of my career," Cristiano Ronaldo

According to local media, Al Hilal is considering terminating KB9's contract. As a reminder, Saudi Pro League teams have a limited quota for foreign players, and management is reportedly looking to rejuvenate the squad.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

Related teams and leagues

Al Hilal