Karim Benzema is “motivated and passionate,” Carlo Ancelotti says

• Carlo Ancelotti says Karim Benzema is “driven and passionate”.
• Frenchman was banned from national team for five.
• If Real Madrid beat Real Valladolid on Friday.

Karim Benzema is “motivated and passionate,” according to Carlo Ancelotti, despite the World Cup nightmare.

Benzema, winner of the Ballon d’Or, was included to the French World Cup squad but was forced to withdraw before the tournament began due to a thigh injury sustained in training.

After France finished in second place, behind Argentina, he declared his retirement from international football.

“No, I won’t comment on France’s recent decision. They felt it was impossible for him to compete in the World Cup. A man who was clearly driven and excited to be there was spotted by us “Ancelotti made this remark about a player who has spent over a decade playing in the Spanish capital.

His contributions in the second half of the season will be invaluable.

After being left off of the France squad that won the World Cup in Russia four years ago, Benzema was eager to make an appearance at this year’s tournament.

A blackmail controversy involving him and his ex-teammate Mathieu Valbuena’s sextape caused France to ban him from the team for five and a half years.

A year of probation and a fine of 75,000 euros ($79,500) were handed down to him in a tribunal for the scandal that took place last year.

Benzema made 97 games for France and scored 37 goals.

If Real Madrid beats Real Valladolid on Friday, they would move into first place in La Liga, passing Barcelona in the process.

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