France have now become the team worst hit with injuries prior to the 2022 World Cup. After training on Saturday, it was confirmed that Karim Benzema will not play any part in their attempt to retain the title.
This takes the number of starting line-up absentees to 6, not counting Raphael Varane, who is still battling a race against time to be fit in time.
France will miss 6 first-team players in the 2022 World Cup with injuries
In comparison, England will be without two of their star fullbacks in Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell and Reece James. Portugal will miss Diogo Jota and Pedro Neto, who haven’t recovered in time to be fit for selection. Germany are also in a similar situation, being without Marco Reus and Timo Werner. Argentina also had to replace Nico Gonzalez and Joaquin Correa from their camp.
Nkunku, Kimpembe and Benzema all had to leave the national team due to injuries. The two attackers unluckily sustained injuries in the training camp itself, after being called up by Deschamps.
And despite their unbelievable depth in every position on the pitch, this will be a huge challenge to overcome. Considering Benzema’s ability to perform under the highest amount of pressure, it could be a significant loss on France’s part to compete in the biggest tournament without their star man.
