International footballer Karim Benzema has announced his retirement.
Goldennewsng reports that the striker for Real Madrid made the announcement after France failed to advance to the World Cup final.
Benzema was sent home on the tournament’s eve because of an injury, but there was some talk that he might play in a Real Madrid friendly and play in the final.
However, he has since confirmed his retirement via social media after reportedly declining the chance to return to Qatar following a disagreement with manager Didier Deschamps.
The shocking announcement by Benzema comes less than 24 hours after France’s defeat to Argentina, which prevented Deschamps’ team from winning two World Cups in a row.
“I’m proud of the effort and mistakes I made to get to where I am today!” On Monday afternoon, December 19, Benzema posted a message on Instagram that read, “I have written my story, and ours is ending.”
Despite scoring 37 goals in 97 appearances for France, Benzema’s time with the team has not been easy since his debut 15 years ago.