Zidane rules out Benzema return, focuses on younger players for France

France head coach Zinedine Zidane has confirmed that Karim Benzema will not return to the national team, despite his personal admiration for the former Real Madrid captain. Speaking ahead of France’s UEFA Nations League fixtures against Turkey and Belgium this September, Zidane said he adores Benzema but needs to see younger players in the squad. Benzema’s last appearance for Les Bleus was in a Nations League match against Croatia in 2022.

This decision affects France’s attacking options for the upcoming matches, signaling a shift toward youth development under Zidane’s leadership. Fans and analysts will watch how the selected younger forwards perform in the high-stakes games, which could shape the team’s trajectory toward major tournaments.

Zidane named his squad for the September international break, emphasizing players who have shown promise in recent club competitions. While Benzema remains a celebrated figure in French football, his exclusion raises questions about balancing experience with renewal. The coach’s focus may inspire emerging talents to step up, but it also risks losing a proven goal-scorer in tight encounters.

Do you believe France’s younger attackers can deliver the needed firepower against Turkey and Belgium, or would Benzema’s experience have made a difference in those crucial matches?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/19/france-squad-i-adore-him-zidane-speaks-on-benzemas-return/