Football

World Cup 2022: Benzema Ends Rumors of France Return

World Cup 2022: Benzema Ends Rumors of France Return

France and Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has hinted that he has little intent in returning to be a part of the France squad for their World Cup final against Argentina at Lusail Stadium in Doha on Sunday. The news comes after rumors spread like wildfire that the striker could link back up with the international side following his recovery from a leg injury sustained in training before the tournament.

The most recent Ballon Do’Or winner, Benzema was expected to play a pivotal role for France at this year’s World Cup in Qatar. After a lengthy absence from international football due to some controversies in his past, the striker’s form for Real Madrid earned him a call-up from France manager Didier Deschamps.

Benzema Misses Out on World Cup

Benzema missed out on the 2018 World Cup and had hoped to add a world title to his silverware cabinet this year by playing with his nation. The star was expected to challenge and likely start over France forward Olivier Giroud, who has  now had the honor of leading the line for France in the last two World Cups.

However, Benzema picked up an injury to his thigh in France training on the evening before the tournament in Qatar got underway and has missed out on playing in any of Les Bleus’ six World Cup games so far. Deschamps opted not to replace Benzema in the squad as it looked like he might make a quick recovery and be ready to play later in the tournament.

This was different treatment from the likes of Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Christopher Nkunku and Presnel Kimpembe, who were totally ruled out of the squad as they recover from longer injuries. Having recovered from the injury he had picked up, rumors flew wildly that Benzema might return dramatically for France to play in the World Cup Final against Argentina.

Benzema Snubbed by Deschamps

Deschamps refused to comment on questions regarding this matter from the media following his side’s win over Morocco in the semi-final. Now, it appears that Benzema has turned the opportunity to get back in the squad down after a recent post he made to Instagram detailing his feelings.

The striker uploaded an image of himself looking rather unimpressed, captioned with the words translated to, “I’m not interested.” This is thought to be a reply to reports that he may return for the final in Doha.

Benzema on Instagram

Benzema is currently training with his club Real Madrid and has been reported to be given permission to fly back to Qatar, even if just to attend the final in support of his team. If France do win the final, then Benzema will be in line to receive a winner’s medal but it seems that he will not collect it in person after his recent comment.

Last week, it was reported in the French media that Benzema had felt left down by Deschamps’ reluctant efforts to have him return to the World Cup squad after France defeated Morocco 2-0 in the semi-final. It appears this may be the reason that Benzema has opted not to make a return to Qatar for the final and possibly pick up a World Cup winner’s medal at the game.


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