Mathieu Valbuena 'more than disappointed' after Karim Benzema's arrest in sex-tape scandal

By Darragh Bermingham

France midfielder Mathieu Valbuena has revealed his "disappointment" with fellow countryman Karim Benzema after the Real Madrid striker was arrested in connection with an alleged attempt to blackmail Valbuena over a sex tape.

Benzema, along with other high-profile players, has been questioned by the French authorities in relation to the blackmail.

Benzema's lawyer, Sylvain Cormier, has insisted his client is innocent, saying: "He took no part, I state this again - no part - in the blackmail or blackmail attempts."

In an extensive interview with Le Monde, Valbuena, speaking for the first time since the news broke, said: "I was obviously disappointed, more than disappointed. His comments reflected a lack of respect. I respected everyone, but then, I felt like I was being taken for an idiot. Many people want to knock me down, but I’ll get back up, as I’ve always done"

Valbuena claims he had initially gone to the French authorities in the summer with the belief that the bribes were being carried out by small-time “bandits” and he didn’t suspect Benzema who claimed to be trying to help his teammate.

On November 5, it was revealed that Benzema had been charged with "complicity in an attempt to blackmail" and conspiring to commit a criminal act.

“I can only be very, very disappointed, and with regards my relationship with Karim, it’s not as sincere as he perhaps claims,” said Valbuena.

“His way of speaking wasn’t aggressive, and he didn’t mention money specifically, but when he insisted I met with someone...,” the Lyon playmaker said. “I’ve never seen anyone who would destroy a video for free just because he loves me. Stop taking people for fools.

“He repeated to me many times that I was dealing with ‘some bad people’. He told me, ‘It’s still quite hot this video. You must be strong.’"

Transcripts of a phone call between Benzema and one of the blackmailers have since been leaked. Benzema and his “friend”, whom he wanted to help get in touch with Valbuena, mocked the Lyon attacker as they conversed over the phone.

Valbuena also admits he is not surprised that Manchester City’s Samir Nasri is reportedly being spoken to in connection with the case.

“My relationship with Nasri has always been difficult," he said.

"Now, nothing surprises me. When you're involved in a racketeering case like this and you see these names, it's almost as if you’re in a madhouse.”