Benzema rubbishes claims that he is unhappy in Saudi Arabia

Karim Benzema has hauled pebbles at those who claim he is unhappy  in Saudi Arabia insisting on the contrary that he is happy and has no problem with Al-Ittihad coach Marcelo Gallardo, despite recent reports of a rift with the Argentine.

The former Real Madrid striker was the Saudi Pro League side’s star signing last summer, arriving from the Spanish giants on a free transfer.

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The Frenchman, who signed a three-year contract with the club, has performed well on the field but appeared to struggle to establish himself in Saudi Arabia.

Benzema was said to have been excluded from first XI training after returning from his 17-day holiday at the end of last month.

One source said they couldn’t even make contact with him for 10 days while he was on holiday in Mauritius, although he was reportedly trapped there due to a cyclone.

The incident caused Benzema not to travel with his teammates to the mid-season training camp in Dubai.

Benzema was subsequently dropped for their Saudi Pro League match against Al-Tai and failed to make the squad for their Asian Champions League trip to Navbahor Namangan in Uzbekistan.

However, Benzema has stated that he is not happy in Saudi Arabia and said he has no problems with Gallardo.

Speaking to reporters, Benzema said: “I’m back and I’m better now.” The story of my departure is not true and I am happy in Saudi Arabia.

‘I have no problems with (Marcelo) Gallardo, all those who say I want to return to Europe are liars. “I am very happy in Al-Ittihad.”

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He concluded by saying: ‘For my part, I don’t have any problem with anyone. Ask the coach about my absence, he was ready for practice in Dubai.’

This is not the first time Benzema has responded to reports claiming he was unhappy in Saudi Arabia. He denied similar claims when he spoke to GQ Middle East.