By Wayne Lumbasi
Real Madrid and France star Karim Benzema has announced his retirement from international football after France’s defeat to Argentina in the World Cup final.
The Ballon d’Or winner was named in France’s World Cup squad but picked up a thigh injury in the days leading up to the tournament, resulting in him flying home from Qatar.
Official. Karim Benzema announces his retirement from international football 🚨🇫🇷 #Benzema
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 19, 2022
He leaves the French national team. pic.twitter.com/FQMNi0TFu1
As France progressed into the latter stages and ultimately the final, there were suggestions that Benzema could make a shock return and be involved against Argentina, as Didier Deschamps had not named a replacement following the injury. However, in the days leading up to the final, L’Equipe claimed that Benzema had cut off communication with the French staff, due to his frustration with Deschamps and the medical team.
The Real Madrid star reportedly wanted to stay with the national team in Qatar and see how the injury progressed, but was instead told to return home.
Karim Benzema's international career by numbers:
— Squawka (@Squawka) December 19, 2022
◉ 97 caps
◉ 37 goals
◉ 20 assists
◉ 1 Nations League
He retires as France's 5th all time top goalscorer. 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/NIz07z7Hp2
A day after France’s final defeat, and on his 35th birthday, Benzema put out a somewhat cryptic message online. “I made the effort and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I’m proud of it,” Benzema posted on social media. “I have written my story and ours is ending.”
The striker has been one of the world’s best players at the club level, helping Real Madrid win five Champions League titles. He earned the 2022 Ballon d’Or after winning Champions League and La Liga titles with Los Blancos, scoring 44 goals in all competitions.
