Al Ittihad coach Nuno Espirito Santo has reportedly informed the club’s board that Karim Benzema is not in his plans for this season.

This summer transfer window, star Karim Benzema ended his glorious time at giants Real Madrid to join the rich Al Ittihad in a historic contract. At his new destination, the French striker quickly showed his class with a dream start, however, the relationship between the former Los Blancos star and the team’s captain, Nuno Santo, quickly developed disagreements shortly after working together.

Extremely conflicted, Benzema considered leaving Saudi Pro League after historic signing

It is known that the source of the conflict between the two sides is said to stem from the Portuguese manager’s refusal to let the French striker be captain as he requested. Tensions came to a head when Nuno met with club leaders in person to present the matter. Saudi media have even speculated that Karim Benzema will find a way to leave if the club does not quickly come up with a reasonable solution.

Earlier, many reputable sources revealed that coach Nuno Santo did not support Al Ittihad signing the former Real Madrid striker. However, the deal went ahead. This was seen as the first rift in this teacher-student relationship, now, with the 1974-born manager not agreeing to hand the captaincy to Benzema, tensions have come to a head again.

Extremely conflicted, Benzema considered leaving Saudi Pro League after historic signing

To show his anger, the French striker has even been absent from a few training sessions recently. Benzema’s move is a vivid testament to the strained relationship like water and fire between the player and his mentor Nuno.

As for Al Ittihad’s management, they are in a dilemma as they are likely to be forced to choose between keeping Benzema and Nuno. The Portuguese coach officially took over the role of captain of Al Ittihad in July 7, in just one season in charge he led the club to the Saudi Pro League title last season.