Karim Benzema Spotted in Arsenal Shirt Amid Arteta’s Transfer Frustration
Karim Benzema has been seen wearing a vintage Arsenal jersey, reigniting discussions about the Gunners’ missed opportunity to sign the veteran striker during the January transfer window.
Arsenal’s Striker Search Ends in Disappointment
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was determined to strengthen his attacking lineup after key forwards Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus suffered significant injuries. However, despite their efforts, the club failed to bring in a new striker before the window closed.
Aston Villa rejected Arsenal’s bid for Ollie Watkins, opting instead to sell Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr. Meanwhile, Mathys Tel, who had been on Arsenal’s radar, secured a loan move to Tottenham from Bayern Munich.
Expressing his disappointment, Arteta admitted:
“We had a clear intention during the transfer window, but we couldn’t achieve it. We only want to sign certain types of players, and unfortunately, that didn’t happen.”
Benzema’s Name Resurfaces in Arsenal Talks
Former Manchester United defender and six-time Premier League champion Rio Ferdinand even suggested that Arsenal should have pursued a six-month loan deal for 37-year-old Benzema from Al-Ittihad.
Arsenal were previously linked to Benzema in the January 2024 window, but he chose to remain in Saudi Arabia. Now, Gunners fans have caught a glimpse of the former Real Madrid star wearing a retro Arsenal shirt featuring club legend Dennis Bergkamp’s name in a video shared on his Instagram.
Benzema Dismisses Retirement Rumors
Since leaving Real Madrid, Benzema has netted 28 goals in 46 appearances for Al-Ittihad. Despite turning 37 in December, he has no plans to retire.
“I don’t know where those retirement rumors come from. Nonsense. My body feels good, I train well, and I’ll take it year by year. I still want to win trophies with Al-Ittihad,” Benzema told ESPN.
As Arsenal fans continue to debate their club’s transfer strategy, Benzema’s appearance in an iconic Gunners jersey has only added to the frustration of their failed winter window.