Benzema and the Road to the 2026 World Cup: What the Star Striker Is Saying Now
When Karim Benzema sat down for a wide‑ranging interview with L’Équipe, the conversation quickly turned from his glittering club career to the biggest stage of all: the FIFA World Cup. With the 2026 tournament just two years away, the French icon opened up about his current shape, his ambitions in Saudi Arabia, and why he still sees the Coupe du Monde as a personal and national priority.
Peak Condition, Clear Mind
At 38, Benzema insists he is “in the best physical condition of my life.” The exclusive interview reveals that the striker has been undergoing a rigorous routine in Saudi Arabia, combining strength work, tactical sessions, and daily video analysis. “I train every morning at 6 a.m. and I feel sharp,” he said. “The goal is simple: stay ready for the moment when my country calls.”
His coach at Al‑Ittihad, a former international teammate, praised Benzema’s dedication, noting that his work ethic sets a standard for the squad. The player’s focus is not just on club duties but also on maintaining a connection with the French national team, even though he has not featured in a World Cup qualifier since 2022.
Final Moments in Qatar: A Emotional Return
One of the most poignant sections of the interview recalls Benzema’s last appearance with Les Bleus. In Qatar, during the 2022 World Cup training camp, the striker described the atmosphere as “electric.” He remembered the final training session before the squad’s departure, a moment that sparked a wave of nostalgia among fans and former teammates.
“The look on the faces of the youngsters, the respect of the veterans – that was the moment that made me realize I still have a role to play for France,” Benzema said. “Even if I’m not on the pitch, I’m here to listen, to guide, and to push the next generation.”
His words have already sparked a wave of reaction across social media, with fans celebrating his humility and others questioning his long‑standing absence from the national side. The manager, Didier Deschamps, has not commented publicly, but sources close to the team indicate that Benzema remains in the manager’s thoughts for any future call‑ups, especially for high‑profile tournaments.
Ambitions in Saudi Arabia
While the spotlight often falls on the World Cup, Benzema is equally driven by his club responsibilities. In the exclusive interview, he explained how his daily routine in Saudi Arabia includes both on‑field preparation and community outreach. “I want to give back to the league that gave me a new home,” he said. “Playing here is a chance to inspire young Arabs to dream big, just as I did growing up in Lyon.”
His performance this season has already earned him comparisons to football legends, and he has been linked with a possible move to a top European club after his contract expires. However, Benzema remains focused on the immediate goal: helping Al‑Ittihad secure domestic titles while keeping his World Cup aspirations alive.
Comparisons and Context
During the interview, Benzema was asked about the recent success of coaches such as Lionel Scaloni (
