JAKARTA - A surprising issue emerged from the French squad ahead of the Qatar 2022 World Cup final. Les Bleus is rumored to be recalling Karim Benzema who was sent home before the tournament began.
France coach Didier Deschamps declined to answer questions about the possibility of Benzema playing in Qatar's 2022 World Cup final against Argentina.
"I'd rather turn to the next question," Deschamps said when asked by Kans Benzema to join the French squad after the win over Morocco, reported by Metro.
Benzema had to leave Qatar ahead of the tournament due to injury. However, he is now recovering from returning to full training with Real Madrid.
In theory, the winner of the 2022 Ballon d'Or can be included in Les Bleus' squad again for Sunday's final match. The reason is, Benzema's name was never crossed out of the squad even though it was sent home.
There are several supporters who even want Benzema to replace Olivier Giroud in the starting eleven (XI).
Previously, Deschamps had also been asked about the possibility of Benzema joining the French national team during the group stage. However, he insisted on not thinking about that possibility.
"It (calling Benzema) is really not something I think about. You seem to know a lot about the situation, but I haven't really obeyed who said what," he said.
"I spoke to Karim after he left and you know the situation, and we heard how long it took to recover."
"So I don't really know what you mean. I have 24 players in my squad and I am happy with the squad I have," he added.
Les Bleus as the reigning champions advanced to the final again after beating Morocco 2-0 in the semifinals at Al Bayt Stadium on Thursday, December 15 earlier.
This final ticket also opens up opportunities for France to match Italy and Brazil's record as a country that successfully defends its title.
Italy did so when they won the 1934 and 1938 World Cups. Meanwhile, Brazil won the 1958 and 1962 World Cups.
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