He left international football, but how can Benzema return to France

2022-12-20 10:52:10, Sport CNA

Karim Benzema could reverse his decision to retire from international football if Zinedine Zidane takes over from Didier Deschamps as national team coach.

France were beaten 4-2 on penalties by Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday, failing to defend the title they won in Russia in 2018.

Deschamps' future as France coach will be decided in the coming weeks and he is reported to have a meeting with federation president Noel Le Graet in January.

Benzema, who missed the World Cup in Qatar after picking up an injury on the eve of the tournament, decided to call time on his international career after France's defeat in the final.

Confirming his retirement on Monday, the forward said on social media: "I made the effort to be where I am today and I'm proud of it. I have written my story and it is coming to an end."

Benzema, who has now recovered from injury, reportedly turned down the chance to travel back to Qatar for the final after clashing with Deschamps.

Foot Mercato newspaper claim that the Real Madrid forward would consider a return to the French camp on the condition that Zidane replaces Deschamps at the helm.

Deschamps has refused to confirm whether he will stay on as France coach after his side's heartbreaking defeat in the final.