Karim Benzema calls for a full-time career as an international footballer | Soccer News

The 35-year-old Real Madrid striker missed Frances’ bid to defend their World Cup title through injury.

French striker Karim Benzema has announced his retirement from international football on his 35th birthday, a day after Les Bleus lost to Argentina on penalties in the World Cup final.

The Ballon d’Or winner, who scored 37 times in 97 appearances for France, was expected to lead the nations line in Qatar but missed the World Cup after suffering a thigh injury in training the day before the tournament kickoff.

I made the effort and the mistakes it took to be where I am today, and I’m proud of it! Benzema wrote on Twitter on Monday. I have written my story and ours is ending.

Benzema made his international debut in 2007. He played in the European Championship in 2008 and 2012 as well as the 2014 World Cup, but was dropped from the next two major tournament squads due to a blackmail scandal.

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. #Nine pic.twitter.com/7LYEzbpHEs

Karim Benzema (@Benzema) December 19, 2022

He was recalled for Euro 2020 last year when Didier Deschamps’ side suffered an early exit, but Benzema then helped France win the Nations League in October last year.

Benzema enjoyed a stellar season with Real Madrid last term, scoring 44 goals in 46 games in all competitions as he inspired them to a La Liga and Champions League double.

Since returning to the international team, Benzema had scored 10 goals in 16 appearances but was forced out of defending France for their World Cup title, which ended in a 4-2 penalty shootout loss. goal against Argentina in Sunday’s final.