Al-Hilal's changing of the guard: Benzema sidelined just as Ollie Watkins arrives

Al-Hilal supporters have been left seeking answers following the sudden omission of star forward Karim Benzema from the matchday squad to face Al-Khaleej in Matchday 4 of the Saudi Pro League.

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Back pain forces cautious approach

According to the Saudi newspaper Al-Yaum, the French veteran is suffering from acute back pain. To prevent any further aggravation or long-term damage, the Al-Hilal medical and technical staff opted to completely withdraw him from the roster for the upcoming clash at the Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium.

In Benzema's absence, the attacking responsibilities will shift directly to Mohamed Kader Meite who has been tasked by the coaching staff with leading the frontline and securing the three points against Al-Khaleej.

The Ollie Watkins factor

Benzema's injury absence coincides with a massive, paradigm shifting move in Al-Hilal's attacking department.

Speculation surrounding the Frenchman's long term future in Saudi Arabia has intensified dramatically following the club's official announcement that they have signed English international striker Ollie Watkins in the past few hours.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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