Real Madrid insist Karim Benzema has their “full support and confidence” as the striker attempts to clear his name in the Mathieu Valbuena blackmail case.
The forward has returned to the Spanish capital after spending the last two days in Versailles, where he was reportedly charged for “attempted blackmail, complicity and participation in the preparation of a criminal offence”.
A statement on Madrid’s official website reads: “Karim Benzema resumed his training [on Thursday] afternoon at the Ciudad Real Madrid after giving evidence to French authorities in the city of Versailles.
“Real Madrid President Florentino Perez held a meeting with the player, in which he expressed his full support and confidence in the virtuousness of his conduct and complete innocence.
“The club acknowledge his professional commitment, proven companionship and impeccable attitude in over six years at Real Madrid.”
Marca adds that Benzema maintained his innocence to Perez, who waited to speak to him at Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex, and made it clear that he was in the right frame of mind to play in Sunday’s match against Sevilla.
