Karim Benzema has not ruled out a potential return to the French national team should Zinedine Zidane succeed Didier Deschamps as head coach, according to recent public comments made during an Instagram live session.
The 38-year-old Al-Hilal striker addressed the possibility even as speaking with rapper Rohff on April 23, 2026, stating that his availability would depend on his physical condition and whether a spot opens up in the squad.
“Si je continue à performer et à être en forme, on ne sait jamais,” Benzema said in French during the live stream, which translates to “If I continue to perform and stay in shape, one never knows.” He added, “En tout cas je fais tout pour garder la forme si une place se libère,” meaning “In any case, I am doing everything to stay in shape if a spot becomes available.”
Benzema acknowledged his age as a factor, noting that he will turn 40 before the next major international tournament, the 2028 European Championship. Despite this, he emphasized his commitment to maintaining peak fitness.
The comments reflect an ongoing dialogue between Benzema and the idea of a national team reunion under Zidane, with whom he shared significant success at Real Madrid. During Zidane’s first tenure as head coach of the club’s first team, Benzema played a central role in winning three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018.
Benzema last appeared for France in June 2022 during a UEFA Nations League group stage match. His international career spans 97 caps, with a notable absence between 2015 and 2021 before his recall under Deschamps.
In December 2025, Benzema previously fueled speculation about a possible return when he told L’Équipe that “Tout le monde a envie de jouer cette compétition” — referring to the 2026 FIFA World Cup — adding that refusing such an offer would make him “un menteur” (a liar) if he truly loved competition.
Didier Deschamps has been in charge of the French national team since 2012, leading them to victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a final appearance in 2022. His contract is set to expire after the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Zinedine Zidane, a 1998 Ballon d’Or winner and former France captain, has been widely linked to the vacant position due to his legendary status in French football and his successful managerial stints, including three Champions League wins with Real Madrid.
As of April 2026, no official announcement has been made regarding Deschamps’ successor, and the French Football Federation has not confirmed any timeline for a decision.
Benzema currently plays for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, having joined the club in 2023 after his departure from Real Madrid. He continues to be active in top-level football, which he cites as essential to any potential national team reconsideration.
The possibility of a Benzema-Zidane reunion with Les Bleus remains speculative, contingent on both Zidane’s appointment and Benzema’s form and selection considerations closer to future tournaments.
For now, the French national team prepares for upcoming fixtures in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Deschamps still in charge until the tournament’s conclusion.
Archysport will continue to monitor official statements from the French Football Federation and verified updates regarding coaching changes and player availability.
What do you think? Should Karim Benzema secure another chance to play for France if Zinedine Zidane becomes head coach? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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