Karim Benzema is not expected to attend the World Cup final amid rumours he's cut off from Didier Deschamps' team once again.
Benzema, 34, is eligible to play for France against Argentina at the Lusail Stadium because he was included in their 26-player squad. The Ballon d'Or holder suffered a thigh injury of the eve on the tournament in Qatar, but Deschamps did not call up a replacement.
There are rumours Benzema is close to a return to fitness. Even if he's not fit enough to play in Sunday's final, he could still attend the game to accept a medal. Yet it's believed he has no intention of returning to the squad after allegedly falling out with Deschamps.
As reported by French newspaper L'Equipe, Benzema has cut off all contact with the national team's staff after they refused to let him stay with the squad after suffering the injury. It's claimed Real Madrid forward wanted to see how his injury evolved over the tournament.
Yet Deschamps and doctor Franck Le Gall reportedly didn't see the point of allowing him to stay. It's believed that has caused Deschamps and Benzema's relationship to deteriorate once again, leaving the superstar striker's international future in doubt.
Hopes of a recall for Benzema emerged after France's 2-0 semi-final victory against Morocco on Wednesday. Deschamps looked uncomfortable when asked about the player. He replied: "I don't really want to answer that question. Next question. I do apologise."
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Benzema then appeared to quash the speculation by posting a selfie on Instagram with the caption: "I'm not interested." As reported by RMC Sport, the player has rejected Emmanuel Macron's offer to take the presidential plane to Qatar to attend Sunday's final.
It would speak volumes if Benzema is not at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday. Regardless of whether France win, receiving a World Cup medal is something every player dreams of. It's also not uncommon for an injured player to attend to support their team-mates.
Sergio Aguero, who was forced to retire last year due to a heart condition, has been in Qatar for the duration of the World Cup to support his former Argentina team-mates and it's likely he will be celebrating with them on Sunday if they're victorious.
Furthermore, Paul Pogba has been pictured in Qatar ahead of the final. The injured France international is expected to be in attendance at the Lusail Stadium to see if Deschamps' side can become the first team since 1962 to defend the men's World Cup.
Benzema won the Ballon d'Or after scoring 44 goals to inspire Real to a LaLiga, Champions League and Supercopa de Espana treble last season. He's one of the greatest strikers of his generation, yet his relationship with the national team has often been fractious.
Benzema did not play for France between 2015 and 2021 after failing out with chiefs. He was recalled to the squad for Euro 2020, held in 2021, and won the Nations League with France in October 2021. He was tipped to thrive in Qatar, but it wasn't meant to be.
