Fresh setback for Al-Hilal as Benzema suffers training injury

World 20 April 2026 at 15:26

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

28.04.26 FT Pro League Saudi Arabia

Al Hilal

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Damac FC

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Al-Hilal have been dealt a fresh setback after Karim Benzema suffered a lower back injury during training casting doubt over his availability for upcoming matches, including the King’s Cup final.

The Saudi club confirmed that the French forward experienced pain in the lumbar area during recent sessions and has since undergone treatment at the club’s medical clinic.

No clear timeline has been set for his return leaving uncertainty around his involvement in a crucial phase of the season.

Growing injury concerns for Al-Hilal

Benzema is not the only concern for head coach Jorge Jesus. Salem Al-Dawsari is also receiving treatment for knee discomfort while Murad Hawsawi is dealing with a knee bruise.

Brazilian winger Malcom remains in rehabilitation adding to the list of unavailable players.

These absences come at a sensitive moment, with Al-Hilal competing on multiple fronts and needing consistency in results.

The team recently exited the AFC Champions League after a quarter final defeat to Al-Sadd on penalties, increasing pressure on domestic competitions.

Benzema’s impact since January move

Since joining Al-Hilal in January 2026 following his departure from Al-Ittihad, Benzema has made an immediate impact. He has scored 8 goal and provided 4 assist in 8 appearance, quickly establishing himself as a key figure in the attack.

However, his time at the club has already been disrupted by recurring fitness issues. The current back problem is his third injury in a short period following a groin issue that sidelined him for 11 day and a minor toe injury that kept him out briefly.

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