Karim Benzema, the celebrated 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, has ignited speculation about a potential return to international football, hinting that “you never no” when discussing his future with the French national team. Currently enjoying a strong start to the season with Al-Ittihad, scoring 5 goals in 9 appearances, Benzema’s comments suggest he is keeping all doors open. He also expressed his belief that his former mentor, Zinédine Zidane, possesses the ideal qualities to succeed Didier Deschamps as the head coach of the French squad after the 2026 World Cup.
“The national team is still a little far away, but you never know,” Benzema stated in an interview with AS. “I focus on what I have now.” Regarding Zidane’s potential coaching role, Benzema was unequivocal: “I think he has everything it takes to get there.He proved it at Real Madrid. There is another coach now, but I think Zidane is number one.”
Benzema’s international career has been marked by a dramatic return for Euro 2021 after a prolonged absence due to disagreements with Didier Deschamps. Though, his tenure was cut short again just over a year later due to an injury that led to him missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, effectively ending his time with les Bleus.
A Return to Real Madrid: “Possible, Really Possible”
The prospect of a return to Real Madrid, where Benzema cemented his legacy as a club icon and a five-time Champions League winner, appears to be a more concrete possibility. After fourteen illustrious years with Los Blancos, he made the move to Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2023. however, his sentiments towards the Spanish giants remain strong.
“Florentino (Perez, the club president) is someone special,” Benzema affirmed. “He’s someone I can never say no to. If Florentino is still there, it’s possible, really possible. I spoke to him and it’s possible.I am a Real Madrid supporter. I feel it deep within me. Madrid is still my city, I feel like a supporter of Real Madrid and madrid. We’ll see.” This heartfelt declaration suggests a deep emotional connection and an open dialogue with the club’s leadership,leaving the door ajar for a sensational homecoming.
