Benitez backs under-fire Benzema: ‘He is very important for us’

Photo credit: AFP.

Real Madrid coach Rafael Benitez has restated his support for French striker Karim Benzema amid increasing criticism of Benzema’s off-field behavior in his homeland. Benzema has been charged in France for his alleged participation in a blackmail case involving international teammate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.

French Prime Minister Manuel Valls added his voice to the debate on Tuesday by claiming sportsmen who don’t behave in an “exemplary” manner shouldn’t play for the national team. However, Madrid have insisted they will stick by Benzema, and Benitez insisted the 27-year-old remains a key player despite not starting either of Real’s last two outings.

SEE MORE: Valbuena claims Benzema ‘indirectly’ told him to pay extortion.

“I consider him a fundamental player for us. On a personal level I have said before that he is a great guy and he has our support,” Benitez said on Tuesday.

“He is a key player for us because he is a reference up front and makes those around him play even better.”

Benzema started Madrid’s humiliating 4-0 defeat at home to Barcelona 10 days ago after a six-week absence due to a hamstring injury, but was only introduced as a late substitute in wins away at Shakhtar Donetsk and Eibar in the past week.

“He is very important for us. He had a long time out with injury and we have to manage his minutes the best way possible.”

Benzema is therefore likely to feature as Madrid get their Copa del Rey campaign underway away at Cadiz on Wednesday, especially as Benitez admitted Cristiano Ronaldo will be rested for the first time this season.

Benitez is in need of a big performance after two unconvincing displays despite bouncing back from the Barcelona debacle with two consecutive wins. However, he insisted that winning rather than beautiful football is the most important way to make amends with the fans:

“First we have to define what is beautiful and good football.

“In principle, what Madrid have to do is respect Cadiz, who are an historic team in Spanish football, and respect such a difficult and dangerous competition as the Copa del Rey.

“We need to prepare for the game with good concentration, with desire, give our best, which is what Real Madrid fans always demand, and on top of that play as well as possible and win.”