Benzema's star power: The heated dressing room row behind Nuno Espirito Santo's sacking

Football coaches have been grappling with the notion that player power in the modern era, especially at top clubs, has significantly eroded their influence in the changing room.  

Following his departure from Manchester United, Jose Mourinho famously remarked, "In today's football, there exists a challenge between the coach and the player. We no longer inhabit a time where the coach possesses enough authority on their own to manage and cultivate relationships, which often involve both guidance and occasional confrontation, with players who may not always exhibit the highest level of professionalism." 

It appears that Nuno Espirito Santo, a fellow countryman of Mourinho, has also encountered the challenges posed by player power. This was evident when Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad announced the sacking of the former Tottenham boss on Wednesday. Nuno had previously enjoyed a successful tenure at Wolverhampton Wanderers from 2017 to 2021 before taking over at Al-Ittihad in July 2022.

During his time at Al-Ittihad, Nuno guided the Jeddah-based giants to the Saudi title last season. However, despite the high-profile signing of former Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, the team has struggled this term. With only six wins from 12 league games and a disappointing 2-0 loss to Air Force Club of Iraq in the Asian Champions League, the club's management decided to part ways with the 49-year-old. 

Reports suggest that alongside a string of disappointing results, a strained relationship with Benzema played a significant role in Nuno's departure. According to sources from Saudi Arabian outlet Al Riyadiah, the defeat in Iraq served as a tipping point, as tensions between Nuno and the French superstar escalated during half-time.  

"You are a brilliant player, but it appears that you are not exerting enough effort to apply pressure on your opponent," Nuno reportedly conveyed to Benzema in the dressing room. Benzema, seemingly displeased with the criticism, reportedly retorted, "Don't just single me out, address the entire group."  

In response, the Portuguese coach asserted, "You are the leader of the team, setting an example for all the players. It is crucial for you to take the initiative and serve as a role model." Al Riyadiah added the reprimand from Espirito Santo continued, while Benzema refuted the accusation of being "lazy."

It is believed that Benzema, expressing his concerns, approached the Al-Ittihad board later that day, stating that the manager's role was impeding the progress of the club's project. Following these discussions, Nuno was dismissed.

Speculation now suggests that the club may consider appointing a French manager to appease Benzema.  

Potential candidates being mentioned include former France and Paris St-Germain boss Laurent Blanc, as well as former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane. The objective appears to be finding a coach who can better align with Benzema's vision and aspirations for the team.  

As for Nuno, perhaps he may seek solace in sharing a drink with Mourinho, commiserating over their common complaints about over-sized player power.