Karim Benzema has come out to announce his retirements from international football. The Real Madrid striker made this announcement known after he had missed out on the World Cup due to injury.

Benzema was sent home on the eve of the World Cup after he had picked up an injury. They were some speculations that he could return after he had played a friendly game for Real Madrid. He out-rightly rejected the opportunity to go back to Qatar after he fell out with the French manager—Didier Deschamps. And now, Benzema has taken to his social media to confirm his retirement.

Benzema’s shocking announcement comes less than 24 hours after France’s were defeated. The French side were denied the opportunity to win the World Cup back-to-back.

In Benzema’s word:

“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,” Benzema wrote on Instagram on Monday, 19th December.

Karim Benzema finishes his France career with 37 goals in 97 appearances, but his journey with the national team hasn’t been smooth since his debut 15 years ago.