Following France’s defeat to Argentina in the recently concluded World Cup 2022, French striker Karim Benzema announced his retirement from international football. He made the shock announcement earlier today.

The prolific footballer timed the announcement to coincide with his 36th birthday.

He chose Twitter to convey the decision.

“I made the effort and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I’m proud of it! I have written my story and ours is ending,” he posted.

Benzema is the current Ballon d’Or winner and was part of the French squad in Qatar before a thigh injury ruled him out of the World Cup.

He made his international debut in 2007 and has 37 goals from 97 appearances.