The Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiah published a report this Wednesday (8), which details the discussion at Al-Ittihad between striker Benzema and Portuguese coach Nuno Espirito Santo.
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As a result, according to the publication, the French player was called lazy by the then coach, who was fired the day after the 2-0 defeat to Iraq’s Air Force in the Asian Champions League.
Thus, Al-Riyadiah brought excerpts from the discussion that would have taken place during halftime of the match. The atmosphere in the Al-Ittihad dressing room was warm.
“You’re a great player, but it seems like you’re being lazy when it comes to putting pressure on your opponent”, complained Nuno.
“Don’t just talk to me, talk to the whole group,” replied Benzema.
“You are the team leader, the example for the players and the most important athlete. You must take the initiative and be an example for all the players”, replied the coach.
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The discussion had been reported last Tuesday (7), by the Spanish portal “Relevo”. Benzema and Nuno exchanged insults, which contributed to the Portuguese’s dismissal.
About three months ago, the coach went public to deny friction with the former Real Madrid striker.
Finally, Nuno Espírito Santo left Al-Ittihad having won just two of the last nine games. The team leads the group in the Asian Champions League, but is in sixth place in the Saudi Championship, where it is the current champion.
