Karim Benzema’s controversial move from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal on the transfer deadline has led to Al-Ittihad fans expressing their dissatisfaction by burning his jerseys.
Benzema, 38, was notably missing from the Tigers’ squad for the 2-2 Saudi Pro League draw against Al-Fateh, despite no injury or fitness issues.
Al-Ittihad nearly emerged victorious, thanks to a Saleh Alshehri brace either side of the break, only for Mathias Berger to drill home a dramatic 99th-minute equaliser.
The former Real Madrid left the club as a free agent after spending two years at the club, helping to win the league.
He left after a breakdown of negotiations for a contract extension with the Tigers.
According to Intel Region, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions offered Benzema no fixed salary, but instead a compensation based on image rights.
The former Real Madrid player found the remark disrespectful, leading to the collapse of negotiations.
On transfer deadline day, Al-Hilal entered the competition and signed Karim Benzema until the end of the 2027 season following the termination of his contract with Al-Ittihad.
All About SPL shared a video of fans tearing down Benzema’s Al-Ittihad jersey and setting it on fire.