Karim Benzema retires from international football

Real Madrid striker, Karim Benzema, on Monday announced his retirement from international football after missing France’s run to the World Cup final.

Benzema’s announcement came less than 24 hours after France’s defeat against Argentina, as Deschamps’s side were denied in their quest to win back-to-back World Cups.

‘I made the effort and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I’m proud of it! I have written my story and ours is ending,’ he wrote on Instagram Monday afternoon, December 19.

Benzema was sent home on the eve of the tournament after picking up an injury, but there was some speculation that he could return for the final after playing a friendly for Real Madrid.

However, he reportedly rejected the opportunity to go back to Qatar after falling out with manager Didier Deschamps, and took to social media to confirm his retirement.

Benzema finishes his France career with 37 goals in 97 caps, but his journey with the national team has been far from smooth since his debut 15 years ago.