Al-Ittihad directors have dismissed talk of a blow-up with Karim Benzema.

It's been claimed the Real Madrid legend went AWOL from training on Thursday and Friday, leaving Saudi Arabia in the process.

Al-Ittihad coach Marcelo Gallardo even expressed frustration over the situation.

But a board source has sought to ease the tension by telling Asharq al-Awsat: "Benzema has requested three days off due to special circumstances.

"Thursday evening he went to Madrid. Karim is a very professional player and remains linked to the team."