Karim Benzema is excluded from the “Al-Ittihad” group for the second consecutive time.
Recall that last week the Frenchman had a conflict with the team's head coach, Marcelo Gallardo. Karim refused to train individually and left the training session. He was not included in the squad for the match against "Al-Taee" (3-0).
The coach's decision not to include Benzema in the match squad is due to several factors. Firstly, his missed training camps are a serious problem as this is the time when the team prepares tactically and physically for the upcoming competitions. The lack of participation in training camps could affect Benzema's integration into the team and understanding of its playing system.
Second, Benzema's age, at 36, raises doubts about his fitness and stamina. Playing at Champions League level requires high intensity and energy expenditure, and the coach is likely concerned that Benzema will not be able to fully meet these demands. The third factor is the presence of younger and fitter players in the team such as Hegazi, Kante, Fabinho, Romarinho and Amdalla. These players can offer greater mobility, stamina and speed on the pitch, which is essential for a team's success in the tournament.
As a result, the coach decided to exclude Benzema from the squad for the match in order to give the team the best chance of success. This was a strategic choice based on an analysis of the player's physical condition, his participation in training camps and the desire to use younger and better prepared players.
