Karim Benzema could make a sensational return to the France squad in the FIFA 2022 World Cup final against Argentina, despite missing the rest of the tournament through injury.
Benzema has 37 goals in 97 caps for France and was Les Bleus’ top scorer at the 2014 World Cup.
Benzema, who was forced to withdraw from the World Cup after suffering a thigh injury in practise in Qatar on the day of the competition, took a flight back to Madrid to start his recuperation.
“I’ve never given up in my life but tonight I have to think of the team, as I have always done,” he had written on Instagram at the time.
“So reason tells me to give my place to someone who can help our squad have a great World Cup,” he had added.
The 34-year-old suffered a muscle tear and was given a three-week recovery period. He left Doha thinking he would be replaced in the squad. Injuries forced him to miss the tournament alongside other team players, Paul Pogba, Lucas Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, N’Golo Kante, and Christopher Nkunku.
Karim Benzema star forward has returned on schedule and has been training without any physical difficulties since last week, according to a report published on Thursday by the Spanish source Marca.
Given that he was never replaced in the French team after quitting the group, Benzema might possibly make an unexpected comeback to the squad if Didier Deschamps needs to utilise him.
After Les Bleus beat Morocco 2-0 in the semis, France manager Didier Deschamps was asked by FOX Sports if Benzema was indeed back to the World Cup but the head coach preferred not to reply.
“I don’t really want to answer that question,” Deschamps said following a long pause. “Next question. I do apologize.”
France Vs Morocco Semi Final Match Highlights – Will Karim Benzema return to the Final Match ?
On the eve of France’s first match against Australia, manager Didier Deschamps chose not to replace Benzema. Instead of 26, he worked with 25 players in Qatar and led Les Bleus to the final after a 2-0 win over Morocco on Wednesday night.
Benzema is still listed on the official FIFA World Cup squad. And according to new development, the Ballon d’Or winner is back in full training with Real Madrid after some rest and relaxation. Mundo Deportivo hinted that he could return to Qatar before the final.
