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Camavinga: “Modric and Benzema gave me a different name”

The Frenchman spoke to the press ahead of France’s U-21 clash with Ukraine

RCD Espanyol v Real Madrid CF - La Liga Santander Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Eduardo Camavinga, Real Madrid’s midfield starlet whose been called up to the France U-21 side, spoke to the media ahead of his team’s clash vs Ukraine’s U-21 team on Friday.

Camavinga spoke about the mentorship he received from Real Madrid’s veterans, as well as his future ambitions.

“I’m very surprised, especially with Benzema,” Camavinga said of the support he received in Real Madrid’s locker room after signing with the club. “Because they are very humble players. Benzema reassured me directly. They even started joking with me that I didn’t speak Spanish. Both Modric and Benzema gave me a different name (laughs). It’s a secret, I’m not going to say it, but I am already integrated”

“Benzema calmed me down,” Camavinga continued. “And we can speak in French. I sit next to him at the table. He told me that if I needed anything, to let him know.”

Camavinga also made it clear he wants to player for the senior French side.

“I love the Spanish championship, there is less physical impact than in the French league. Regarding the French team, my role in the U21 has not changed. I am not at all the same player. They will not see me with a magnifying glass because I have signed for Real Madrid. I can continue to contribute my experience to the U21. But it is clear that my objective is to return to the senior team.“

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