05.02.2026 15:59
Karim Benzema, who transferred from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, faced a huge backlash. Mohammed Noor, one of the legendary figures of Al-Ittihad, described Benzema's departure as a 'betrayal.' Noor stated that Benzema disregarded the support of the fans and that this decision was unacceptable.
Karim Benzema, who left Al-Ittihad during the mid-season transfer period to sign with arch-rival Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, has become the center of a major controversy. This decision by the French star has caused a seismic effect within the Al-Ittihad community, and harsh statements have come from Mohammed Noor, one of the legendary figures in the club's history.
LEFT MID-SEASON, REACTIONS SNOWBALLED
After last season's champion Al-Ittihad remained in 6th place in the league and fell out of the title race early, Benzema's departure from the team and direct transfer to Al-Hilal intensified the criticism. Fans and club circles interpreted this decision as "betrayal."
"DID NOTHING, THEN RECEIVED SUPPORT"
Mohammed Noor, who wore the Al-Ittihad jersey between 1994-2013 and 2014-2016, targeted Benzema with harsh words on the Dawrina Gher program. Noor criticized the French star's performance with the following words:
"What did Benzema do in his first season at Al-Ittihad? He did nothing. In the following season, he turned everything upside down. So who supported him? The fans. How many penalties did he miss in the Al-Ittihad jersey, 5-6, right?"
"FANS CARRIED HIM, TROPHIES CAME"
Noor emphasized the importance of fan support, stating, "The fans supported him, supported the team, and we won both the league and the cup. This is a fact."
"WHO ARE YOU?"
The legendary footballer's harshest outburst was regarding Benzema's decision to leave. Noor said to the French star, "After all this, you come out mid-season and say, 'I no longer want to play for this team.' Who are you? I respect your career, but what difference do you have from Ronaldo? You can't even be compared to him. You are nobody."