The future of Frenchman Karim Benzema, captain of Ittihad and former Real Madrid legend, has sparked widespread controversy in recent weeks, especially with the approach of his contract's end and the increasing speculation about his next destination amid interest from European clubs.

The news ignited with reports about Benfica of Portugal entering negotiations with the French star at the request of his coach José Mourinho, who had previously coached Benzema at Real Madrid, before the latter denied those reports during a press conference.

However, the surprise came from Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, who confirmed that the veteran striker had made his decision not to renew his contract with Ittihad, indicating his desire to embark on a new European experience that would allow him to participate again in the UEFA Champions League.

Galetti added that Ittihad has set the player's transfer value in the upcoming winter period between 7 and 8 million euros, an amount that could entice several clubs looking for a striker with extensive experience and significant market value before the end of the season.

On the other hand, one of the contracting agents in Saudi Arabia warned of the increasing news related to foreign stars as their contracts near expiration, explaining that some leaks could merely be a means of media and public pressure to improve renewal terms.

Benzema, who faced difficulties in his first season in Jeddah, managing only 13 goals and 8 assists in 29 matches, regained his brilliance in his second season under Laurent Blanc, scoring 25 goals and providing 9 assists in 33 matches, leading Ittihad to achieve domestic double.

At 37 years old, the French star is still capable of making a difference on the pitch. Despite Mourinho's denial and the emergence of contradictory narratives, current indicators confirm that the departure of 'the captain of the tigers' from Jeddah has become a matter of time only, while everyone awaits his final European destination.