Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has insisted he is not an ‘actor’ and that his humility is still recognised by the French public.
The Gallic star joined Los Blancos from Lyon six years ago, in a move which garnered criticism from some of his countrymen for appearing to value fame over glory, but the 27-year-old claims their harsh words were borne out of jealousy.
“I’m not an actor, and I don’t play for the cameras because I can’t. There are some people who can do that very well, but I can’t,” he told Surface Magazine.
“I don’t know if the French have a problem with success. It’s clear that you can’t please everyone, but regardless I’m proud of my background.
“I am what I am, in life I like to laugh and I get on well with everyone. It’s said that some people don’t like me…
“But when I walk down the street, old and young people, women, children, everyone shows me affection. Maybe [journalists] talk about me too much.
"For me, being lazy isn’t a defect. All that matters is scoring goals. You may also reconsider the role of a striker.
“If you’re lazy and don’t run but score goals, there’s nothing to criticise.
“I only take criticism when it comes from someone who has played at a high level or who knows football.
“In these cases, I can’t say anything, but when it comes from people who have never played football, sorry but I don’t acknowledge them.”
