Karim Benzema has reacted to reports that Barcelona could be excluded from La Liga if Catalonia gains independence.
Spanish League President Javier Tebas stated on Tuesday that both Barca and Espanyol would need to quit La Liga if there is a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum due to take place on November 9.
However, the Real Madrid striker made it clear the Catalans must still compete in Spain no matter what happens in politics.
“We need Barcelona to stay in the League. That’s what football is all about – two great teams like Madrid and Barca playing against each other.
“If they need to leave La Liga then that would be a problem so I hope things stay as they are,” he told a Press conference in France, where he has linked up with the national team ahead of friendlies against Portugal and Armenia.
Benzema was also asked to compare Cristiano Ronaldo with Lionel Messi, something he refused to do although he praised both players.
“I can’t compare the two as they don’t have the same style of play. Both are great players and are without question among the best on the planet.
“In my case, if I wanted to reach their level I’d have to improve my statistics and win individual titles as well as collective ones,” he replied.
