Karim Benzema’s decision to step away from international football came amid a season marked by sudden health concerns and the rush of a World Cup campaign in Qatar. The French squad, guided by Didier Deschamps, faced a difficult moment as the team learned that the star striker could not recover in time to contribute on the field. The medical update supported by the team aligned with the assessment given in Madrid, underscoring the seriousness of the injury and the slim window for a return to full training. In the moments describing the situation, Deschamps recalled a tense exchange with Benzema during the hours before the decision was finalized. He relayed that Benzema felt he could not participate at the level required and urged patience, emphasizing that there was no reason to rush a comeback that might compromise long-term health. The trainer described the scene as emotionally charged, noting that after a brief period of support and reflection, Benzema was not able to continue toward competition.
The team captaincy during that period did not shift, and no last‑minute replacement was named for Benzema, a decision that reflected the high level of confidence the coaching staff had in the remaining players to carry the squad forward on the world stage. France headed into the tournament with a clear sense of purpose, aiming to defend their title and pursue success through collective strength rather than reliance on a single star.
France progressed to the World Cup final for a second consecutive edition, a testament to collective depth and meticulous preparation. The final match, contested against Argentina, unfolded with intensity and high stakes, ultimately concluding in a penalty shootout that favored the Argentine squad. The outcome did not detract from the overall resolve and cohesion demonstrated by the French side across the tournament.
In the wake of the tournament, Benzema announced his retirement from the French national team, signaling a turning point in his international career. His exit from the national group was reflected in a notable shift on social media, where he unfollowed most teammates. The changes in his online presence appeared to be part of a broader transition away from the national setup, though several teammates remained in mutual followings as a sign of ongoing connections within the squad.
It is worth noting that Benzema had not been a regular presence in key recent campaigns for France, having been left out of the squads for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 European Championship. The debate around his international career during those periods highlighted the evolving dynamics within the team and the evolving nature of selection decisions.
Meanwhile, Olivier Giroud, a former teammate at AC Milan, spoke about the prospects of continuing his career with the France national team, offering perspectives on what the squad would need to sustain high performance going forward. The conversations around the forward line, the balance of experience and youth, and the tactical considerations facing the team remained central to the France program as it prepared for future challenges. [Source: Le Parisien]