Karim Benzema 'involved in angry altercation' with Al Ittihad manager after 'refusing order'

Karim Benzema has reportedly been involved in an angry altercation with Al Ittihad manager Marcelo Gallardo after refusing an order.

Benzema looked set to leave the Saudi Pro League side in the January transfer window and was heavily linked with the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea.

Saudi sides have been on a winter break but Benzema caused an almighty stir by going on holiday without permission and then reporting back later than scheduled.

And he and Gallardo continue to be at odds according to a new report from MARCA.

In training on Monday, Benzema was ordered to train by himself after participating in the first part of the session with teammates.

Benzema, who is Al Ittihad's captain, refused to do so and is said to have become angry and left the session.

Image: Getty

In the Frenchman's mind, he had already trained individually during his absence from the mid-season training camp in the United Arab Emirates.

Gallardo, who replaced Nuno Espirito Santo as manager, is remaining firm and not handing out special privileges following on from Benzema's episode and refusal to apologise.

The Real Madrid legend signed a three-year deal with Al Ittihad, who were looking to retain their Saudi Pro League title after a busy window which also included signings like N'Golo Kante and Fabinho.

Image: Getty

However, they found themselves lurching in seventh place on 28 points - a whopping 28 points behind leaders Al Hilal after 18 games.

Benzema has scored 12 times 20 appearances in all competitions but has been criticised for his displays.

The ex Lyon striker deleted his Instagram after the abuse took its toll and does not appear to be enjoying his time in Jeddah all that much.

MARCA say Benzema's relationship with Gallardo is "broken" and it will be interesting to see if he finds himself back in the picture.

Al Ittihad resume league action against Al Tai on Wednesday evening.