A surprising possibility for a French legend

At 37 years old, Karim Benzema has reopened a chapter that seemed definitively closed: a potential return to the French national team. In an interview with L’Équipe, the Al-Ittihad forward was blunt when asked about joining France for the 2026 World Cup: “If they call me, I’ll come back.”

Benzema, who stepped away from international duty in 2022, insisted he remains a fierce competitor and that no true footballer would turn down the chance to play in a World Cup. His words sparked surprise, especially given the complicated relationship he has had with manager Didier Deschamps in recent years.

A tense history with Didier Deschamps

Benzema missed the Qatar World Cup due to a last-minute injury, but controversy escalated when Deschamps implied that the striker left the France camp prematurely to recover in Madrid. Weeks later, Benzema announced his retirement from the national team, seemingly closing a turbulent era.

Asked about those events, the forward chose not to revisit the past, stating that the matter is “finished.” His response signals a desire to avoid reopening old wounds, even as his comments invite speculation about a potential comeback.

A career marked by brilliance and controversy

Benzema’s journey with France has been anything but straightforward. After debuting in 2007, he spent years out of the squad following the Valbuena blackmail scandal, for which he was eventually convicted as an accomplice. Only his exceptional form with Real Madrid paved the way for his return in 2021.

He won the Nations League, scored four goals at Euro 2021 and briefly reclaimed a starring role—until injuries and the rise of a new generation led by Kylian Mbappé gradually reduced his influence. Even so, his quality remains unquestioned.

Is there room for Benzema in France’s 2026 plans?

France now relies on a deep pool of attacking talent—Mbappé, Thuram, Kolo Muani and others—and a Benzema return would ignite a major national debate. Does his experience and pedigree justify reopening the door, or has the team already moved on?

What’s certain is this: Benzema hasn’t ruled anything out. If the call comes, he will answer. And that alone has shaken the landscape of French football.