After his recent visit to Algeria, Karim Benzema’s exclusion by France has sparked a wave of controversies and questions. This decision, occurring amidst tense diplomatic and sporting contexts, raises issues about the true reasons behind this exclusion.
Karim Benzema: Notably Absent for the Paris 2024 Olympics
Despite his desire to participate and the possibility of being called up, Karim Benzema will ultimately not be part of the French Olympic team for the 2024 Paris Games.
Thierry Henry’s decision as the coach has prompted numerous questions and disappointments among French football fans. Several possible reasons explain this absence:
Mixed club performances: Since his transfer to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, Benzema has not reached his former Madrid level. Hindered by injuries, he has played only 15 out of 24 possible matches. Consequently, his on-field impact has been diminished.
Complicated relations with his coaches: Tensions with Nuno Espirito Santo and Marcelo Gallardo marked his time at Al-Ittihad. These conflicts likely did not work in his favor with the French selectors.
Thierry Henry’s sporting choice: The coach favored players in better physical form and more aligned with his playing strategy. He notably called up Alexandre Lacazette and Jean-Philippe Mateta instead of Benzema.
Benzema’s absence feels like a possible end chapter with the French team for the striker. Despite expressing his desire to participate in one last tournament with Les Bleus, perhaps to erase the memory of the missed Euro 2020, Thierry Henry’s decision has divided opinions. Some understand it, given Benzema’s recent performances, while others regret it, believing his experience and talent could have been valuable for the French team.
In any case, it marks a turning point for Karim Benzema and the French national team.
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