Benzema had been a key figure for France since making his debut in 2007, but the forward fell out of favor with the national team program due to his alleged involvement in the Mathieu Valbuena sex tape scandal. Benzema, however, has denied the allegations repeatedly. With this development, the 33-year-old rejoined the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann in the French squad as reigning world champions Les Bleus hope to shine at the Euros this summer.

The national team coach, who guided the country to World Cup success at Russia 2018, weighed in on Benzema’s inclusion, indicating that he formerly refused to recall the player at the expense of Chelsea star Olivier Giroud. “There is always competition,” he added. “You quote Giroud and Benzema, but for more than three years they were together. By making this choice, it is for the good of the France team, as it always does. The France team is supposed to be better with Karim Benzema, but not at all by eliminating Olivier Giroud. Do not forget, however, that for years the French team has obtained very good results: vice-champion of Europe, World Champion “.

Deschamp went further to say there were important steps and discussions between him and the player after which he had a long reflection to come to this decision. “The France team does not belong to me, even if I am well aware that the responsibility that I have is important, by the choices that I have to make,” Deschamps added.