Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – French football player Karim Benzema on Monday announced his retirement from international football, a day after Les Bleus’ defeat to Argentina in the Qatar World Cup final.
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner said on Instagram: “I made the effort and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I’m proud of it! I have written my story and ours is ending.” The announcement comes as Benzema celebrates his 35th birthday on December 19.
Benzema had featured among France’s World Cup squad and was expected to play a key role in the tournament. However, he missed his chance at participating due to a thigh injury on the eve of the World Cup, and was given a three-week recovery period.
“In my life I have never given up but tonight I have to think about the team, as I have always done, so reason tells me to leave my place to someone who can help our group make a good World Cup,” he said on Twitter on November 19.
Read also: World Cup: ‘Obscene’ Gesture from Golden Glove Winner Makes Headlines
The Real Madrid player expressed his support and encouragement to France’s national team throughout the tournament.
“Come on guys, two more games .. almost there… behind you… Let’s go,” Benzema said on Instagram after France’s qualification for the semi-finals.
Converging reports speculated that Benzema could have joined his teammates for the finals, but the Real Madrid player rejected the opportunity due to a feud with head coach Didier Deschamps.
The closing ceremony of the tournament took place yesterday, with Argentina defeating France 4-2 through penalties after a 3-3 draw that awarded them the World Cup title.
In addition to Benzema, several key players were ruled out of the Qatar World Cup due to injury, including Senegal’s Sadio Mane, Morocco’s Amine Harit, and France’s Paul Pogba.
