Karim Benzema is one of the most gifted and popular footballers in the world. He is also one of the most controversial, as he has been linked to a number of scandals in his career. In light of Benzema’s latest scandal, which involved him allegedly receiving payment from a sporting agent, it has been reported that he will not be able to play in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. This news comes as a huge blow to France, who is heavily favored to win the tournament.
Benzema was their top goal scorer and key player, and his absence will be felt on the field. Qatar has come under intense scrutiny for its human rights record, and France is no exception. They have called for all French fans traveling to Qatar to boycott the tournament if Benzema is not allowed to play. Will this controversy affect France’s chances of winning the World Cup? We will have to wait and see. In the meantime, be sure to stay up-to-date with all the latest news and updates on this story as it develops.
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Karim Benzema is out of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
French international Karim Benzema has been ruled out of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar due to injury. The Real Madrid forward is set to miss the tournament with an ankle problem. This is a huge blow for Les Bleus, who were expected to rely heavily on Benzema in Qatar. Los Blancos will be without their talisman for their first major international competition since 2006.
The 27-year-old has scored 51 goals in 113 appearances for France and was part of the squad that reached the final of Euro 2016.
What this means for France and the tournament
France are going to be without Karim Benzema for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Real Madrid forward was ruled out with a foot injury, which will leave coach Didier Deschamps with some difficult choices ahead of his side’s first Group C game against Australia.
It is perhaps ironic that Benzema picked up his injury while representing France at the international level, as he has been in excellent form for Madrid this season. Without the 29-year-old, Deschamps will have to look to other forwards such as Olivier Giroud and Antoine Griezmann to lead France’s attack.
Benzema’s absence is a big blow for Les Bleus and could have a significant impact on their chances of winning the World Cup. He has scored 33 goals in 76 appearances for France and is an important part of their squad. However, it remains to be seen whether Deschamps will be able to find a replacement capable of providing the same level of performance in Qatar.
The other contenders for the World Cup
Benzema has not played for France since November due to ongoing corruption investigations, although he was cleared of any wrongdoing in February.
Belgium’s Eden Hazard is the clear front-runner for the Golden Ball award as the tournament’s best player. The Chelsea midfielder has been in inspired form for club and country this season, scoring nine goals and providing eight assists in all competitions.
Brazil has a very strong side, led by Neymar who scored twice at the Confederations Cup final last month to help them win their fifth World Cup title. The Barcelona forward will be looking to make an impact at his home World Cup and he will be joined up front by Philippe Coutinho of Liverpool. Brazil’s defense features captain Thiago Silva and Miranda from Manchester United.
Germany is another team that many people expect to do well. Led by Bayern Munich’s Thomas Muller, they boast an experienced side that includes Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos and Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil. Belgium’s Christian Benteke is likely to be one of their main threats.
Conclusion
Karim Benzema of France has been ruled out of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar after being accused of sexual assault. The French striker has denied the allegations, but Squawka reports that he is unlikely to be cleared in time for the tournament which is set to take place from June 14-July 15. This news comes just days after FIFA president Gianni Infantino said that “national associations” could choose whether players involved in criminal proceedings would play at the world cup if they are innocent or guilty.