Discover how Karim Benzema’s role has evolved since joining Saudi football, from Real Madrid’s talisman to Al-Ittihad’s experienced leader.
Benzema’s Role Evolution in Saudi Football
When Karim Benzema signed for Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023, the move sent shockwaves throughout the footballing world. A reigning Ballon d’Or winner and one of the most complete forwards of the modern era, his transition from Real Madrid to the Saudi Pro League marked a new chapter not just for the player but for the league as a whole.
Now deep into the 2024/25 season, Benzema’s role in MYBET88 football has evolved significantly. No longer just a striker who scores goals, the Frenchman has become a tactical leader, playmaker, and cultural ambassador. His presence has reshaped Al-Ittihad’s attacking dynamics and redefined what it means to be a foreign superstar in the Saudi league.
From Talisman to Teacher: Benzema’s Tactical Shift
At Real Madrid, Benzema was the centerpiece of attack, often tasked with carrying the goal-scoring burden and orchestrating play in the final third. At Al-Ittihad, his role has shifted in three key ways:
1. Deep-Lying Forward
Rather than remaining high and central, Benzema often drops deep to help with ball progression. This allows the wingers — such as Igor Coronado or Romarinho — to exploit space in behind the defense. His football IQ enables him to:
-
Connect midfield and attack fluidly.
-
Hold up the ball under pressure.
-
Attract defenders and create space for others.
2. Creative Distributor
Benzema’s assist numbers have risen this season. With fewer demands to lead the line, he now operates as a secondary playmaker, spraying passes wide or threading through-balls to runners.
3. Mentorship Role
As one of the most decorated players in the league, Benzema plays a crucial role in mentoring local Saudi talent, particularly young attackers. His training ground habits, professionalism, and football intelligence are vital assets for squad development.
Adapting to the Saudi League’s Unique Dynamics
The Saudi Pro League presents a very different tactical environment than La Liga. High-tempo transitions, direct attacks, and intense physicality demand flexibility — and Benzema has adapted impressively.
Differences From La Liga:
-
Less emphasis on possession-based build-up.
-
More open spaces due to varying defensive structures.
-
Increased individual duels in midfield.
To remain effective, Benzema adjusted by:
-
Improving his off-the-ball movement to exploit open zones.
-
Rotating wide to help in overloads.
-
Accepting fewer touches while maintaining maximum efficiency.
Benzema’s Impact on Al-Ittihad’s System
Under Nuno Espírito Santo and later Marcelo Gallardo, Al-Ittihad has transitioned between multiple systems, often switching between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-3-3. In both formations, Benzema is central — not just positionally but philosophically.
In 4-2-3-1:
-
Plays as a traditional No. 9 but drops into a false-nine role.
-
Interchanges with the attacking midfielder to unbalance defensive lines.
In 4-3-3:
-
Acts as a roaming forward with freedom to drift.
-
Often used to pull defenders and trigger inverted runs from wide players.
Statistical Contribution (2024/25 so far):
-
Goals: 12
-
Assists: 9
-
Key passes per match: 2.4
-
Touches in opposition box: Decreased by 15% compared to last season, indicating deeper involvement.
Leadership Beyond the Pitch
Benzema’s evolution also includes cultural leadership. His presence has:
-
Elevated the league’s international visibility.
-
Attracted younger European players to view the Saudi league as a serious career option.
-
Sparked interest in youth football development programs across the country.
His off-pitch behavior — calm demeanor, dedication to training, and positive attitude in interviews — has made him a respected figure among Saudi fans and media.
The Challenge of Expectations
Despite his contributions, Benzema has also faced challenges:
-
High fan expectations due to his Ballon d’Or status.
-
Adapting to extreme weather conditions, which affect game tempo and stamina.
-
Media scrutiny, especially after a few injury spells and inconsistent team performances.
Yet through it all, he has remained composed, using his experience to guide the team and mentor younger teammates.
Comparison with His Madrid Role
| Attribute | Real Madrid Era | Al-Ittihad Era |
|---|---|---|
| Main Responsibility | Primary scorer | Playmaker-leader hybrid |
| Role in Build-Up | Final third finisher | First and second phase connector |
| Influence on Teammates | Relied on by young core | Mentor to rising Saudi talents |
| Playing Position | Advanced No. 9 | False 9 / Free-roaming attacker |
| Tactical Adaptability | System-focused | Flexible, role-dependent |
What’s Next for Benzema in the League?
With one year remaining on his contract, the future remains open. Benzema could:
-
Extend and become an official club legend.
-
Transition into a coaching or ambassadorial role.
-
Lead Al-Ittihad to more domestic and continental silverware.
In any case, his impact on Saudi football will outlast his stay. His presence is already influencing training methods, media coverage, and fan engagement across the league.
Conclusion
Karim Benzema’s journey in Saudi football is not just a tale of late-career luxury — it’s a story of tactical evolution, leadership, and legacy. From goal machine at Real Madrid to a deeper, more creative and influential figure at Al-Ittihad, Benzema has embraced the challenges of a new league with professionalism and purpose.
His presence symbolizes the ambition of the Saudi Pro League to be more than just a destination for superstars — it wants to be a stage where they transform the sport’s ecosystem, both on and off the pitch.
As Benzema continues to inspire on Saudi soil, fans are encouraged to support their favorite league — follow the matches, celebrate local and global heroes, and take part in the exciting evolution of football in Saudi Arabia.