Karim Benzema, the former Real Madrid captain, took part in the Saudi al-itthad club training on Monday, ending a long debate about his future with the pole of Jeddah.
There has been speculation about Benzema’s desire to join another team in the winter transfer window, and he did not travel with his team to a camp in Dubai during the hiatus, thus missing Al Faisali’s last-eight clash for the Copa del Rey on Sunday.
On Monday, the al-itthad published a photo of Benzema from training of the team, writing his name in English without further comment.
In the absence of Benzema, Ahmed Hijazi carried the armband and scored twice against Al-Faisali. Striker Abd Al-Razzaq Hamdallah scored from the spot.
French Ngolo Kante scored with a stunning shot, winning the team nicknamed “Brigadier” 4-0 and reaching the final of the competition.
“Benzema’s return depends on the player himself and his physical abilities,” said Marcelo Gallardo, the federation’s head coach, after the victory, so the Argentine coach left the door open for the French goalscorer to participate soon.
The al-itthad will play Al-Tai in the Saudi League next Wednesday, and it is not yet clear if Benzema can enter the squad or will be ready for the next AFC Champions League last 16 match the following week
