The relationship between Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema and France head coach Didier Deschamps has broken during the World Cup, according to L’Equipe.
Benzema has not contacted the French staff since his departure from Qatar before the start of the World Cup.
Deschamps selected Benzema as part of his 26-man squad, and the former Lyon man made the trip to the Middle East.
However, the 34-year-old attacker picked up a thigh injury that ruled him out of the tournament. He left the French camp and returned to Madrid to continue his rehabilitation.
Benzema’s entourage are reportedly unhappy with how the France staff handled the injury. They believe the intensity of training on the day he picked up the knock was too much.
The Ballon d’Or winner wanted to stay with the France squad, which would have given him time to recuperate and potentially play at the tournament. But Deschamps sent him home.
Benzema returned to training with Madrid around a week ago. He even played in the club’s friendly with Leganes three days ago. If he stays injury-free, he will be ready to start when La Liga resumes on December 29.
Reports from France claim that the relationship between Benzema and Deschamps has broken. The pair already had issues when the manager refused to call up the striker for games due to his court case with Mathieu Valbuena.
Benzema’s incredible form for Madrid since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo forced Deschsamps’ hand. But despite his super club form, Benzema struggled a little with the French set-up.
There were rumours that everyone believed Olivier Giroud fits better for how France play.
This new case has brought further tension between Deschamps and Benzema. It will be interesting to see this one play out with the 2024 European Championship qualifiers around the corner.
Benzema has sent a good luck message to his teammates ahead of the final against Argentina. He will not attend the game in person after rejecting France president Emmanuel Macron’s invitation.
