For the first time since 1978, the current winner of the Golden Ball will not play in the World Cup

As previously reported, the striker of the French national team, this year's Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, will not play at the 2022 World Cup starting today in Qatar due to an injury.

Karim Benzema

This is the first time in 44 years that the current Ballon d'Or winner will not take part in the World Cup.

In 1978, England striker Kevin Keegan was unlucky. But he played at the 1978 World Cup not because of an injury, but for the reason that the English national team failed to break through to that world championship.