Al-Ittihad forward Karim Benzema explains why his game differs from his time at Real Madrid
Benzema has openly acknowledged the challenges he has faced since joining Saudi club Al-Ittihad, in contrast to the success he enjoyed at Real Madrid. "I can no longer bring victories to the team alone," Benzema admitted. "I need the same kind of help and support as at Real Madrid."
The veteran forward appeared to strike a humble and introspective tone, acknowledging that he can no longer single-handedly lead a team to victory in the way he once could. Benzema clearly yearns for the collaborative chemistry he enjoyed with his former Real Madrid teammates. His candid comments suggest a player adjusting to a new environment and level of responsibility, moving away from the superstar status he held in Spain. Benzema appears willing to rely more on his Al-Ittihad teammates for success, rather than trying to shoulder all the burden himself.
"The fact is that it's a completely different team, with a different name. I need help. I need someone to help me on the pitch. I can't win alone. I need other players and other things too." Benzema was quoted by Madrid Universal on social media. Benzema's comments suggest a player struggling with the stark differences between his new team, Al-Ittihad, and his former club, Real Madrid. Gone are the days when he could single-handedly lead a team to victory.
Instead, Benzema appears humble and vulnerable, openly admitting that he needs the help of his new teammates to succeed. The repetition of “I need” underscores his willingness to rely on others, rather than trying to carry all the burden himself. Benzema’s candid comments reveal a seasoned player who has had to adjust his mindset and approach after leaving the comfort of Real Madrid. He seems to recognize that he can no longer operate in the same way, and that collaboration with his new teammates will be essential. This humanizing perspective offers insight into Benzema’s personal experience of adapting to a radically different environment.
Karim Benzema, the 36-year-old footballer, left Real Madrid to join Al-Ittihad last summer. Since then, he has made 26 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and providing 8 assists.
During his tenure at Real Madrid, Benzema has reached the pinnacle of individual accolades, winning the prestigious Ballon d'Or in 2022 as the best player in the world.
Now, the veteran forward finds himself in a markedly different environment at his new club, Al-Ittihad. The transition appears to have necessitated a change in mindset and approach from Benzema, who has openly acknowledged the need for greater support and collaboration from his teammates.
Rather than trying to replicate his past exploits as the sole driving force, Benzema seems willing to adapt his game and rely more on his new teammates. His recent comments suggest a humble and introspective player, acknowledging that he can no longer shoulder the burden of success alone. That human element — Benzema’s willingness to be vulnerable and adopt a team-first mentality — offers insight into the challenges facing an elite player adjusting to a new chapter in his career. It highlights Benzema’s growth and self-awareness as he navigates this transition, seeking to find the right balance between individual brilliance and collective contribution.
