Karim Benzema makes a big announcement about his future with the French national team… and about Zidane!

Karim Benzema has once again become the centre of attention in French football. In a new and highly anticipated interview with the Spanish newspaper AS, the former Real Madrid superstar finally opened up about his international future and the ongoing rumours regarding a possible coaching change for Les Bleus. Speaking with unusual openness, the striker discussed his admiration for Zinédine Zidane, the current situation of Didier Deschamps, and whether a return to the French national team might still be possible.

Speaking from Saudi Arabia, where he now plays for Al-Ittihad, Benzema spoke calmly but clearly about his connection to French football. Even though he now shines far from Europe, his interest in Les Bleus has never faded. He admitted that he closely follows every match and every development, especially as France continues to maintain its status as a major contender in world football.

The interview took place shortly after France secured their qualification during the latest international break. With strong performances and a stable group, the national team looks ready for the challenges ahead. It was in this atmosphere, both peaceful and full of expectations, that Benzema agreed to answer questions about his past, present, and possible future with the national team.

Benzema, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2022, has not worn the French shirt since late 2022, just before the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His withdrawal from that tournament due to injury became one of the most dramatic moments of his career and one of the most controversial episodes in French football. His international journey has always been emotional, intense, and full of twists.

His story with Les Bleus is one that many fans still debate. He spent five years away from the national team because of the well-known sextape case involving Matthieu Valbuena. When he returned in 2021, he became one of France’s most dangerous attacking weapons again, helping them win the Nations League that same year. However, injuries and disappointment at the European Championship brought another setback, eventually leading to his retirement from international football in December 2022.

Despite this turbulent history, Benzema remains one of the greatest scorers in French football. With 97 caps and 37 goals, he is the fifth-highest scorer in the history of Les Bleus. Yet many still feel that his potential contribution to the national team was never fully realised.

During the interview, Benzema was asked about the constant rumours suggesting that Zinedine Zidane might replace Didier Deschamps as head coach. Without hesitation, Benzema expressed deep admiration for the man who transformed his career at Real Madrid.
He said, “Zidane has everything it takes to succeed. He has already shown this at Real Madrid. There are other good coaches today, but for me, Zidane is number one.” His words were powerful, sincere, and full of respect.

Deschamps, who has led the team since 2012 and brought home a World Cup and a Nations League title, faces increasing discussions about his future. Many believe that the Paris 2026 project could finally bring Zidane to the national bench, especially since Zidane himself has expressed interest in returning to coaching.

When asked whether he would return to the national team if Zidane became the coach, Benzema stayed cautious but did not fully close the door. He simply said, “The national team is still far away, but you never know. For now, I am focused on what I have.” This short statement, full of mystery, has already fueled speculation across Europe.

Observers believe that if Zidane takes charge in 2026, a reunion between the two might become possible. Some fans even imagine a last dance, a final chapter where Zidane recalls his former number 9 to guide a new generation of French talent. It would be a story of redemption, reconciliation, and an emotional goodbye at the highest level.

For now, the idea remains uncertain, more like a beautiful football fantasy than a confirmed plan. But with major tournaments approaching and the future of the French bench still under debate, anything seems possible. At 37, Benzema could still bring experience, intelligence, and a unique presence back to the team, giving his international career the ending many believed he deserved.

In the meantime, he continues to shine in Saudi Arabia, proving that even after leaving Real Madrid, his hunger and competitiveness remain intact. Whether he returns to Les Bleus or not, Karim Benzema’s influence on French football will always remain unforgettable.