France Squad: I Adore Him – Zidane Speaks On Benzema’s Return

France head coach Zinedine Zidane has ruled out a return to the national team for former Real Madrid captain Karim Benzema.

Zidane, who admitted that he adores Benzema, said he is currently focused on giving younger players opportunities with the national team.

The 54-year-old recently named his squad for the September international break, with France set to face Turkey and Belgium in UEFA Nations League fixtures.

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Asked about the possibility of Benzema returning to the squad, Zidane told reporters ahead of his first matches in charge of France: “I spent extraordinary years with him [Benzema] in Madrid. I adore him. He has played for France.”

“Right now, I need to see younger players with the national team,” he added.

Benzema’s last appearance for France came in a Nations League match against Croatia in 2022.