The winner of the “Golden Ball-2022” Karim Benzema injured his left leg during training and will not play at the World Cup in Qatar.

Karim Benzema misses the World Cup in Qatar

The 34-year-old forward of Real Madrid underwent an MRI in Doha, according to the results of which it was determined that he was out for three weeks. Benzema was injured in France training on Saturday night and tests revealed he had a hamstring injury.

This is the first time since 1978 that the “Golden Ball” will not play in the final tournament of the World Cup.

“I’ve never given up in my life… but tonight I have to think about the team as always, so I want to give way to someone who can help the group make a big World Cup. Thanks for all the messages of support” – Karim Benzemaon Instagram.

Coach Didier Deschamps has until Monday to find a replacement. In the first match in Qatar, France will face Australia (Tuesday, 21:00).

“I am very sad for Karim, who has made this World Cup his main goal. Despite this new blow for the French national team, I have full confidence in my group. We will do everything to cope with the huge challenge that awaits us”, – breeder Didier Deschampsin the application.

Karim Benzema is the fifth big name in France to miss the 2022 World Cup due to injury, following Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Presnel Kimpembe and Christopher Nkunku.

The composition of the French national team at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar

Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (West Ham), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (Rennes)

Defenders: Lucas Hernandez (Bayern), Theo Hernandez (Milan), Axel Dizazy (Monaco), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), Jules Kunde (Barcelona), Benjamin Pavard (Bayern), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich), Raphael Varane (Manchester United)

Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga (Real), Yussuf Fofana (Monaco), Matteo Genduzi (Omega), Adrien Rabiot (Juventus), Aurelien Chuameni (Real), Jordan Vereto (Omega)

attackers: Kingsley Coman (Bayern), Ousmane Dembele (Barcelona), Olivier Giroud (Milan), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Kylian Mbappe (PSG), Kolo Mouani (Frankfurt).