World Cup 2022: Karim Benzema to Snub Return to France Squad Ahead of Final

World Cup 2022: Karim Benzema to Snub Return to France Squad Ahead of Final

Chukwu Ikechukwu
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:20 PM
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  • Karim Benzema has made a decision on rejoining France for the 2022 World Cup final
  • Benzema picked up an injury on the eve of the Mundial and was forced to leave Qatar
  • France booked a place in their second successive World Cup final by beating Morocco

Karim Benzema will not be rejoining the France squad ahead of the World Cup final this Sunday, December 18, despite being eligible to return.

Benzema left the France camp after he picked up a thigh injury on the eve of the tournament in Qatar, but the Real Madrid forward’s name remained on his nation's squad list.

Karim Benzema, France, Didier Deschamps, Real Madrid, Qatar 2022, FIFA World Cup, Argentina
Karim Benzema will not return to Qatar to join up with the rest of the France squad for the World Cup final. Photo by Eurasia Sport Images.
Source: Getty Images

According to the Daily Mirror, the 34-year-old forward has been left disappointed by Didier Deschamps’ lack of enthusiasm about a potential reunion.

The French boss declined to answer the question about the striker's return to the squad, after Les Bleus secured a second consecutive World Cup final slot with their victory over Morocco.

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The European titans will take on Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday, as they hope to secure back-to-back trophies following their triumph in 2018.

Benzema forced from France squad

Meanwhile, Deschamps compelled Real Madrid superstar Benzema to drop out of France’s FIFA World Cup squad, Sportskeeda reports.

The 34-year-old was hurt the night before the tournament kicked off, but it was claimed the injury was not as serious as the French national camp had suggested.

It has been further claimed that Deschamps approached the striker in Qatar and commented: "What a pity Karim, that you have to leave."

Benzema will still receive medal

Earlier, Sports Brief reported there is a light at the end of the tunnel, when it comes to Benzema's dreams of earning a FIFA World Cup medal.

The Real Madrid striker was a part of his country's squad selected for the tournament in Qatar, but was ruled out of taking part due to an injury.

Benzema suffered a thigh injury while preparing for Les Bleus’ tournament opener against Australia, and reports stated he would require weeks of recovery.

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Chukwu Ikechukwu
Chukwu Ikechukwu Godwin is a journalist with over 9 years of experience in the Nigerian media industry. He has worked both in Radio (Today FM, Rhythm FM, Wish FM) and Television (Silverbird TV) as a Sports Analyst..
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