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Just days after turning 38, Karim Benzema has delivered a bombshell that could send shockwaves through the French national team setup. The Al-Ittihad striker, who announced his international retirement in 2022, has revealed he is open to a sensational comeback for Les Bleus, specifically hinting at the opportunity to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In an interview with L'Équipe, the French legend's answer was direct and uncompromising: "If they call me, I'll come back. Who doesn't want to play in a World Cup? Everyone wants to be part of that tournament, so if you tell me I could go with France to play a World Cup and I say no, I'd be lying."
The Key to the Kingdom: Zinedine Zidane
While Benzema insists he is focused on his club duties, his return hinges on one critical factor: the likely managerial change following the 2026 World Cup.
Deschamps' Departure: It is widely speculated that Didier Deschamps will step down after the summer tournament, paving the way for the appointment of Zinedine Zidane.
The Zidane Factor: Benzema and Zidane share a close, trusting relationship forged over years of success at Real Madrid.
Benzema previously stated that Zidane "has everything to become [France] manager" and that his appointment would tempt him to revoke his retirement.
Ending the Saga: Benzema's initial international retirement came after he pulled out of the 2022 World Cup squad due to injury, an exit that was followed by public disagreement and controversy with Deschamps. A change in management would completely reset the dynamic.
The 2026 World Cup Ambition
For a player who won everything in club football, the World Cup remains the final, tantalizing piece of silverware missing from his collection.
Unfinished Business: Though he received a silver medal after France finished as runners-up in 2022, he did not play due to injury.
The chance to feature and score at a World Cup is clearly a burning desire.
Current Form: Despite being in his late 30s and playing in Saudi Arabia, Benzema remains in top shape, scoring consistently for Al-Ittihad. He is performing at a level that, on merit, puts him in contention for any elite squad.
The Roadblocks While the door is open from Benzema's side, two major hurdles stand in the way:
Didier Deschamps: The current manager has never publicly left the door open for a return and has remained aloof from the
controversy surrounding the 2022 World Cup exit. Unless Deschamps is replaced sooner than expected, a comeback before the 2026 World Cup remains unlikely.
The New Generation: The emergence of younger, highly in-form attackers like Kylian Mbappé, Marcus Thuram, and Randal Kolo Muani means the competition for striker spots is now tougher than ever. Benzema would have to displace a current starter purely on merit.