World Cup

'Would Argentina bench fit Messi? Nice move Benzema' - Ballon d'Or winner's France retirement raises fan eyebrows

Seth Willis
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Messi, Benzema
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Fans across the world have taken to their social media to express their views after the Real Madrid striker announced his international retirement

On Monday, striker Karim Benzema seemingly announced his retirement from the French national team, hours after their World Cup loss to Argentina in Qatar.

Benzema left the World Cup prematurely owing to an injury and had to watch on from the side as Les Bleus made it to the final against Argentina, but lost on penalties. Initial reports indicated Benzema was fit for the final but he was not considered.

While some feel it was okay for the Real Madrid forward, who turned 35, to take that bold move, some think otherwise.

Here are their reactions.

Editors' Picks

  1. Benzema proved worth at Real Madrid
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    Benzema proved worth at Real Madrid

    Benzema, was a man who stayed in the shadows at Real Madrid and when his time came he showed the world what he is made of. Legendary striker Karim Benzy - Shon Only

  2. Benzema has nothing to lose
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    Benzema has nothing to lose

    Benzema will now fully focus on Real Madrid, scary remainder of the season ahead. He has nothing to lose - Ayodi Avico

  4. Benzema, just like Messi, deserved to play
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    Benzema, just like Messi, deserved to play

    So France decided they’ll start Olivier Giroud in the final over a fit Benzema. Would Argentina bench a fit Lionel Messi? Nice move by retiring Benzy - Ahmed Salat

  5. Sad to see Benzema retire at his prime
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    Sad to see Benzema retire at his prime

    I feel they did dirty to Karim Benzema during the World Cup squad selection, sad to see you retire in your prime - Itz Mungai

  7. Benzema would have delivered vs Argentina
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    Benzema would have delivered vs Argentina

    If Benzema was around results could be different despite his poor stats this season - Starfish

  8. What has Benzema done?
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    What has Benzema done?

    France is better without Benzema, what has he done for France? Nothing, in fact, he retired six years ago - Andrew Seth

  9. Overrated Benzema?
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    Overrated Benzema?

    I like Benzema but he's become a bit overrated now, people acting like he deserves a World Cup and is the best striker of his generation - Mohamed Sali

  10. Benzema decided against joining France late
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    Benzema decided against joining France late

    Benzema could have joined the team [France] late to win the World Cup but he decided not to reap where he hasn't sown - Andy Myers

  12. Benzema is the best
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    Benzema is the best

    World Cup alone can’t determine how good his career has been, he is the best - Book RM