Lyon attempted to bring Karim Benzema back from Al-Ittihad last year (January 2024) due to rumors of his unhappiness in Saudi Arabia. However, the financial demands were too high. Benzema is always welcomed at Lyon, both on and off the field, but the transfer is unlikely due to the exorbitant Saudi sums.

There were rumors about Benzema's return to Europe with a new episode in Lyon. However, in the end, Benzema stayed with Al Ittihad.