France team suffered a huge blow when their star striker Karim Benzema has been ruled out of the World Cup. He got an injury to his left thigh during training on Saturday in Doha, the French federation has confirmed. Benzema was in a pain in his thigh after the end of the practice session.
"I am extremely sad for Karim, who had made this World Cup a major objective," coach Didier Deschamps said in a statement.
"Despite this new blow for the French team, I have full confidence in my group. We will do everything to meet the huge challenge that awaits us."
Benzema also reacted and said, "I've never given up in my life but tonight I have to think of the team, as I have always done," he said.
"So reason tells me to give my place to someone who can help our squad have a great World Cup. Thanks for all your messages of support."
He went through an MRI and then it was confirmed that Benzema suffered a muscle tear. France is currently standing at the 4th position in the rankings. Four years ago, Kylian Mbappé became a superstar after he helped France win the World Cup. The 2022 tournament could prove to be a welcome respite from the pressures of Paris Saint-Germain and will also provide Mbappé with a chance to play in his favorite position.
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola, Alban Lafont, Hugo Lloris, Mike Maignan, Steve Mandanda.
Defenders: Lucas Digne, Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, Jules Kounde, Ferland Mendy, Benjamin Pavard, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Raphael Varane.
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Matteo Guendouzi, Boubacar Kamara, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni.
Forwards: Ousmane Dembele, Kingsley Coman, Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann, Randal Kolo Muani, Kylian Mbappe, Christopher Nkunku.