Karim Benzema Reflects on Former France U17 Teammates: Menez, Ben Arfa, and Nasri Fell Short
Karim Benzema, who starred alongside Jeremy Menez, Hatem Ben Arfa, and Samir Nasri in France’s 2004 U17 World Championship-winning squad, offered a candid assessment of why only he has maintained a strong presence in the senior national team eleven years later.
In an interview with Le Parisien, Benzema stated that while his former teammates all had talent, they ultimately failed to make the sacrifices necessary to sustain a career with the French national team.
“They had the talent, but perhaps they did not make the sacrifices to stay in the national team,” Benzema said. “Sacrifices mean nothing if you cannot endure criticism or harsh comments. You can kill me, I will never respond. I have taken so much! But I know that you must not answer back even if it is difficult, even if it hurts your head. I hope they will return to the national team one day.”
Benzema himself has faced significant criticism over the years—from his refusal to sing the national anthem to a lengthy goal drought between June 2012 and October 2013—but has remained resilient.
His comments highlight the harsh realities and demands required to thrive at the highest levels of international football.
