After decades of messy scandals; From accusations of racism by the French media and fans to a disastrous blackmail case, Karim Benzema’s tumultuous career with Les Bleus is over.
His announcement came through social media.
“I made the efforts and mistakes necessary to get to where I am today, and I’m proud of that,” to his 18.7 million followers. “I have written my own story, and our story is ending.”
Karim Benzema retires
His bombshell announcement comes hours after he celebrated his 35th birthday, and just one day after France lost a heartbreaking World Cup final on penalties.
Benzema retires from international football with 97 caps; he tied for tenth in French history and with 37 goals, fifth in French history. Some of his memorable moments with the team include winning the 2020-21 UEFA Nations League, where he scored twice.
Benzema’s time in France was marred by a multitude of incidents. He was criticized by French regular William Gallas for being “arrogant” during Euro 2008. After missing out on the 30-man World Cup squad in 2010, he achieved good form under new coach Laurent Blanc. Benzema had a good time at Euro 2012 and even scored three goals at the 2014 World Cup.
However, Benzema would miss both Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup due to his role in an alleged blackmail scandal involving France teammate Mathias Valbuena. His return to France at Euro 2020 saw him score four goals in four games, but again, France fell short.
His relationship with the France fans has been rocky, to say the least. France, which has been rocked lately by xenophobia and racism, has complicated its relationship with Les Bleus.
After a particularly tough match in 2011 in which he was ridiculed by the mainstream press, Benzema complained: “If I score, I’m French. If I don’t, I’m an Arab.” Multiple stars including Kylian Mbappe have also had to deal with the issue.
The Real Madrid striker and Ballon d’Or winner declined the chance to end his international career with a bang when he turned down an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron to rejoin France’s camp. Benzema missed the entire World Cup with a thigh injury.
Photo credit: IMAGO / NurPhoto
