by Karim Benzema ‘REJECTS French President Emmanuel Macron’s offer to travel to the World Cup final by private jet’ as his row with Didier Deschamps continues – but fellow injured Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante have left off to Qatar!
Karim Benzema has rejected the chance to attend the World Cup final with France, according to reports.
The Ballon d’Or winner missed the tournament through injury and was expected to be a big miss for Didier Deschamps’ Qatar side, but they coped with the absence and will play their second consecutive final later this afternoon.
According to RMC Sport via Get French Football News, however, Benzema rejected an offer from French President Emmanuel Macron to take a presidential plane to Lusail to watch the match and support his team.
Karim Benzema refused to attend World Cup final in support of France
The striker is said to be furious at his treatment by France coach Didier Deschamps
Recent reports suggest the 35-year-old could make a dramatic return to the squad for the game against Argentina, something the player himself has dismissed and insisted he ‘doesn’t care about. “.
It appears he has turned his back on the team and is said to be ‘furious’ with Deschamps for sending him home due to his injury, which has damaged an already fragile relationship.
Benzema reportedly only needed three days of treatment at Real Madrid’s training center before going on holiday and has already recovered from his injury.
Deschamps asked about Benzema in the build-up to today’s game against Argentina in Qatar
Deschamps looked upset when asked if Benzema could make the final with Argentina.
He closed his eyes and puffed out his cheeks before saying “I don’t really want to answer that question” and letting out a smile as he quickly said, “Next question.”
Olivier Giroud impressed in Benzema’s absence, becoming his country’s all-time top scorer in the tournament, but a virus in the French squad has led to calls for Benzema’s return.
But he won’t even be in the game as a spectator, casting doubt on his future international career after already missing five-and-a-half years of playing time due to a dispute.
Other injured players Christopher Nkunku, Paul Pogba, Presnel Kimpembe and N’Golo Kante will all be present in Qatar.
Oliver Giroud has impressed in Benzema’s absence, striker’s future unclear
