Karim Benzema responds to Al Ittihad exit rumours amid claims of 'feud' with Nuno Espirito Santo

Karim Benzema has made his feelings clear about Al Ittihad amid reports of a rift with manager Nuno Espirito Santo.

Benzema joined the Saudi Pro League club from Real Madrid earlier this summer as he followed in the footsteps of former club colleague Cristiano Ronaldo.

He's already shown his class for his new team, having scored three goals in six games in all competitions.

But his services may be deemed surplus to requirements as Santo has reportedly told the club's board that the Frenchman does not fit into his tactical style.

The explosive report from Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat also claims that the Portuguese manager did not request the signing of the star forward, leading to tension between the two personalities in the dressing room.

It's suggested Benzema requested the captaincy at Al Ittihad, too, which was denied by the former Tottenham coach, who handed the armband to Romarinho.

The reported rift between Benzema and Santo opened the door to a shock departure for the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner.

However, Al Ittihad have tried to play down the situation as they posted a short video of the 35-year-old, accompanied with the caption: "KB9 always happy."

KB9 always happy 😃pic.twitter.com/1AHQeJrmhb

— Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 23, 2023

On Snapchat, they shared a clip of Benzema and Santo talking during a training session.

The videos shared by the club were reposted on the player's social media accounts, suggesting he's happy despite the reports.

Benzema has featured in Al Ittihad's opening two league games of the new season and provided an assist in their 3-0 victory over Al Raed.

They return to action tonight as they travel to Al Riyadh in a league fixture.