KARIM BENZEMA topped a fine season by winning the Ballon d’Or.
But the Real Madrid striker was then struck by injury after being named in France’s squad for the World Cup.
Though Benzema is now back training with Real, with pictures emerging from their Valdebebas base.
So would he be allowed to play in the World Cup final now France have beaten Morocco to make it?
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST BETTING APPS FOR THE WORLD CUP
Would Karim Benzema be allowed to play at the World Cup final?
Karim Benzema COULD play for France if they reach the World Cup final – as he was never officially replaced in the squad.
The Real star had been ruled out by French boss Didier Deschamps, but is back training with his club team.
Marca report he has returned on time and has in fact been training without issue since last Saturday.
And this means he could make a return to the fold if needed because he was never replaced in the French team.
The strong form of Olivier Giroud means such a return is unlikely, however, with the AC Milan star’s goals so far proving vital for his nation in Qatar.
And now Didier Deschamps has denied reports that Benzema will return to the squad for the final.
“I take care of 24 players here,” said the France boss.
“I don’t take care of those who are not here, like Kimpembe or Pogba as well. I’m not going to talk about things that do not occupy my day-to-day.”
Benzema missed out on 2018 World Cup glory due to his ongoing issue with compatriot Mathieu Valbuena, which kept him out of the national set-up until 2021.
He has taken to Instagram to post a cryptic message, stating: “It does not interest me.”
