The World Cup aspirations of Karim Benzema are over after he was forced to withdraw from the competition due to an injury he sustained in practice.
After suffering an injury on Saturday, the Real Madrid attacker had his first complete training session in the Middle East cut short.
The hope was that he would only miss Tuesday’s opening against Australia before being flown to Doha for a scan.
The 34-year-old received some bad news, as France has confirmed that he will not compete in the World Cup due to a thigh injury that will keep him out for three weeks.
Shortly after the announcement, Benzema posted on Instagram that he thought it would be preferable to give his spot to someone who can succeed him and help them keep the trophy.
He said: ‘In my life I have never given up but tonight I have to think about the team as I have always done so reason tells me to leave my place to someone who can help our group make a good World Cup. Thank you for all your messages of support.’
France has already had prolific RB Leipzig striker Christopher Nkunku ruled out due to an injury in training.
Due to their personal ailments, players like Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Presnel Kimpembe, and goalie Mike Maignan were all unable to be chosen.
