French striker Karim Benzema, who plays for Al-Ittihad Saudi Club, clarified his stance on returning to represent the French national team in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, affirming that he would not object to participating if called up.

Benzema said in his interview with the newspaper "L'Équipe": "If the French national team calls me up, I will definitely go. Who doesn't dream of participating in the World Cup? This tournament is the dream of every football player."

Speaking about the previous crisis with France's coach Didier Deschamps in 2022, Benzema said: "That is a story from the past. I don't want to reopen the discussion or stir up controversy. It's been over for a long time."

Benzema also addressed his future with Al-Ittihad Club, denying that he has renewed his contract so far, emphasizing that his current focus is on playing with the team, whether during the last six months of his contract or after a potential renewal.

He added: "Olympique Lyon has given me a lot and left me with a very beautiful image. Returning to them as a player is not easy, and I might contribute to them in a different way, but nothing is certain yet for me as a player."

The French national team is preparing for the 2026 World Cup in Group 9 alongside Senegal, Norway, and the qualifier from the global playoff, while Benzema continues to deliver strong performances with Al-Ittihad despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract future.