OFFICIAL: Real Madrid's statement about Karim Benzema

Real Madrid have released a statement about Benzema's situation with the French blackmail scandal. Here's the translation for said statement.

Karim Benzema returned to training this evening at Real Madrid City after making a statement to the French authorities in the Versailles.

The Real Madrid C. F. president, Florentino Pérez, held a meeting with the player in which he gave him his full support and expressed his confidence that his actions were in good faith and that he is completely innocent.

The club values and recognises the professional commitment, the displays of camaraderie with his team-mates and the impeccable attitude he has shown as a core member of the first team squad for the more than six seasons that he has been a part of Real Madrid.

Karim Benzema was charged early today and could face a long sentence if he is found guilty. However, his good relationship with Mathieu Valbuena raises some questions about how involved he was in the scandal.

Benzema is still recovering from his muscle injury and will try to play next Sunday against Sevilla in what will be a very important match for Real Madrid.