Will Karim Benzema play tonight against Al-Fateh? Latest update on Al-Ittihad star’s availability

Al-Ittihad star striker Karim Benzema, who is also the team's captain, will be missing from tonight's important match against Al-Fateh in the Saudi Pro League due to a muscle injury.

The French striker, an influential presence in Al-Ittihad's offence, suffered the injury in training recently and has been receiving treatment under the watch of the club's medical staff since. The absence will be a heavy blow for the defending champions, who need a recovery after an unsteady start.

Why Karim Benzema is ruled out of the Al-Fateh match

A statement released by Al-Ittihad confirmed that Karim Benzema is now on a programme to rehabilitate his muscle injury, effectively putting his chances of playing tonight out of the window.

The professional medical staff of the club, along with the International Medical Centre, is following up on his situation.

The club, however, is yet to set a time placed on his recovery, leaving his availability for upcoming games in doubt. The veteran striker will be absent from the squad set to face Al-Fateh, local outlets, including Asharq Al-Awsat, reported. This precautionary measure has been put in place so that the injury is not further aggravated and that he can fully recover before returning to competitive action.

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How Karim Benzema’s absence affects Al-Ittihad

Having lost Karim Benzema to injury, Al-Ittihad would have to make major overnight changes in their attack. In his absence, the team will either need to turn to their forwards off the bench or perhaps adjust their formation to stay threatening. Aside from the tactical side, Benzema brings a level of presence in the leadership sense on the field, and with him out, the team will feel that absence, particularly in an early-season fixture both sides need.The star striker has been ruled out for the time being, but no indication yet for how many games he might be absent, as it will depend on how quickly he responds to treatment. Al-Ittihad have to ready themselves for their meeting with Al-Fateh in the absence of their captain, in the meantime, hoping fellow players can step up and deliver on the day and bring home a desirable outcome. The kickoff time of the match is 8:30 pm SAST.