Karim Benzema refuses to join the France squad for the final despite being fit after falling out with Deschamps

Despite having recovered from his injury, Karim Benzema has hinted that he will not be with the team for the World Cup final.

The Real Madrid star suffered a thigh injury just a day before the World Cup began and has since missed all 6 games for France. However, Didier Deschamps chose not to replace Benzema in the unlikely event that he was fit to play.

And now, despite recovering from the injury, he appears to have turned down the opportunity after posting a message on Instagram, captioned: “Not interested,” with a selfie of him looking unimpressed.

Benzema is said to be back in full training with his club and has been given permission by Real Madrid to return to Qatar to be present at the Lusail Stadium in any capacity ahead of the final. If France wins the World Cup for the third time, Benzema will be eligible for the champion’s medal.

The reason for Benzema’s refusal could have something to do with Didier Deschamps. It has been reported to Relay (via the Mirror) that the striker is disappointed by the manager’s lack of enthusiasm for him throughout the tournament.

The coach was asked about Benzema at the press conference during the group stage and he rejected the question saying he doesn’t think about it. He said:

“Wow. Well, I’m not sure [what to say], that’s really not something I’m thinking about. You seem to know a lot about the situation, but I haven’t really been following who has been saying what.”

And again when asked if there is a possibility that Benzema could return for the final, he said: “I really don’t want to answer that question. Next question.”