Karim Benzema has sparked excitement in the football world again with a recent video, leading to speculations among Arsenal fans about a possible move to the Premier League. Currently playing for Al Ittihad, the French forward was seen wearing an Arsenal shirt with the name of club icon Dennis Bergkamp, a moment that quickly went viral among Gunners supporters.
The video, which Benzema posted on social media, begins with him in a stylish Versace outfit before showing clips of his training sessions and highlights from his time at Al Ittihad. However, it was the sight of him wearing Bergkamp’s shirt that captured the most attention among Arsenal fans.
Benzema’s admiration for Bergkamp is well-known. Both players share exceptional technical skill, great ball control, and a talent for scoring stunning goals. This recent show of respect for the Dutch legend has reignited conversations about when Arsenal nearly signed Benzema during his early years at Lyon.
In 2008, Arsène Wenger, who was a fan of Benzema, tried to bring him to Arsenal. At the time, the young striker was making a name for himself in Ligue 1, and Wenger saw him as an ideal long-term successor to Thierry Henry, who had moved to Barcelona the year before. Reports suggest Wenger personally spoke to Benzema, encouraging him to join Arsenal, praising him as “one of the most exciting young forwards in European football” and emphasizing his fit within Arsenal’s attacking style.
Despite Wenger’s efforts, the deal never went through. Lyon, aware of Benzema’s rising value, demanded a higher transfer fee, and Real Madrid eventually signed him in 2009. That move helped shape his illustrious career, as he won several La Liga titles and the Champions League with Madrid.
Now 36, Benzema is at a career crossroads. His move to Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia initially seemed promising, but reports suggest that he may be unsettled in the Middle East. A return to European football could be a possibility, and Arsenal, in need of a seasoned striker, could be a potential destination.
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, has a young and exciting squad but lacks an elite striker to lead the attack in crucial moments. Gabriel Jesus has struggled with injuries, and Eddie Nketiah hasn’t yet proven himself as a consistent goal-scorer at the top level. Adding a player like Benzema, even on a short-term deal, could provide the firepower Arsenal needs to challenge for major titles.
There are rumors that Arsenal’s management is closely monitoring Benzema’s situation. If he seeks to leave Al Ittihad, a move to North London in the January or summer transfer window could be a realistic possibility. Benzema’s vast experience, leadership, and goal-scoring ability would undoubtedly add value to Arteta’s squad.
Despite his age, Benzema remains a prolific striker. Last season, he scored 31 goals for Real Madrid across all competitions, showing he still has the sharpness and technical brilliance that made him one of the world’s best forwards. His presence in the Arsenal dressing room could also be a great source of mentorship for the club’s younger attacking players.
However, wages could be an issue. Benzema currently earns a substantial salary in Saudi Arabia, and Arsenal would need to negotiate a deal that makes the transfer possible. Yet, if Benzema is eager to return to European football and compete at the highest level again, he may be willing to take a pay cut.
Another factor to consider is Arsenal’s position in the Premier League and European competitions. If the Gunners continue to challenge for the title and have a strong run in the Champions League, they could become a more attractive option for Benzema, who still has the desire to win trophies.
For now, Arsenal fans can only dream of seeing the Ballon d’Or winner in their iconic red and white jersey. While the recent video might have been simply a tribute to Bergkamp, the unpredictable nature of football transfers means that it wouldn’t be shocking if discussions between Benzema and Arsenal become more serious in the near future.
As rumors continue to grow, the January transfer window could bring some surprises. If Arsenal decides to pursue Benzema, it could turn out to be one of the most talked-about transfers of the season. Football has a way of resurrecting unfinished stories.
