Real Madrid will reportedly not stand in the way of Karim Benzema flying to Qatar to feature for France in the 2022 World Cup final amid speculation he could still be called upon.
The Ballon d’Or winner suffered a thigh injury on the eve of the major tournament and was sent back to Madrid to undergo rehabilitation on his injury, although the star striker was never replaced in the squad.
The striker returned to training earlier this week before also taking part in a friendly for Los Blancos against Leganes earlier today.
Benzema wore the captain’s armband in the 1-1 draw – which David Alaba, Toni Kroos, and Lucas Vazquez also played in – in what could be a tempting boost for France ahead of Sunday’s final against Argentina. According to AS, the Spanish giants have given the player permission to travel to Qatar to be a part of the squad for the final.
The same report suggests that he will be entitled to a winners or runners-up medal depending on the outcome of the meeting with Argentina, as he is still registered in France’s 26-man squad.
The fact that he is still included has led to speculation that the 34-year-old could even still play a role in the final, especially given he has returned to competitive action.
France boss Didier Deschamps gave a cryptic response when asked if Benzema could feature in the World Cup final – letting out a sigh before smirking and quickly saying ‘next question’.
Credit: dailymail.co.uk
