Karim Benzema has hit back at critics of his performances since moving to Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad, saying he needs help and can’t win games alone.
The former Ballon d’Or winner became one of several high-profile names to move to Saudi Arabia last summer after ending a trophy-laden 14-year spell with Real Madrid.
However, he has managed just nine goals in 20 league games in his first season in Saudi. Al Ittihad, last season’s champions, sit a distant fourth in the standings, 30 points behind leaders Al Hilal.
Asked after Al Ittihad’s 0-0 draw with Al Taawoun Friday why fans weren’t seeing the same Benzema as at Real Madrid, Benzema told Action with Walid: “Because it’s not the same game, it’s not the same players.
“I need help on the pitch, I can’t win one game alone. I need another player, I need a lot of things. But it’s different, it’s my first season in Saudi. I hope I finish the season well, I hope I win. That’s it.”
According to ESPN, last summer, Benzema, 36, inked a lucrative three-year contract with Al Ittihad valued at €400 million.
However, ESPN disclosed that Benzema explored potential options during the January transfer window due to a lackluster initial six months in Jeddah.
Although the former France international understood the slim chances of Al Ittihad releasing him, he contemplated a return to Europe.
ESPN sources revealed that both Chelsea and his hometown club Lyon expressed interest in acquiring Benzema.
Benzema boasts an impressive track record, having netted 354 goals for Madrid in 648 appearances, and clinched a record 25 trophies, including four LaLiga titles, five Champions Leagues, and numerous other honours.