Karim Benzema believes racism kept him off France’s team for Euro 2016

Did you think Karim Benzema was missing from the France squad because he’s under criminal investigation for allegedly blackmailing teammate Mathieu Valbuena? Well, Benzema himself disagrees.

“He,” Benzema said, referring to France manager Didier Deschamps, “has bowed to the pressure of a racist part of France. He has to know that in France the extremist party reached the second round in the last two elections. I do not know, therefore, whether it is a decision only for Didier, because I’ve gotten along with him, with the president, everyone. I do not have a problem with anyone. I am with France and wish them well.”

Multiple high-profile politicians publicly stated that they didn’t believe Benzema should be in the team, while French legend Eric Cantona also accused Deschamps of intentionally leaving out players of North African heritage.

This is a sticky situation. Benzema should be believed if he says he’s experienced racism. But at the same time, he’s accused of committing a crime against a teammate. Any team would find it difficult to justify using any player who’s accused of that until they’re cleared.

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Lassana Diarra is out of Euro 2016, and Morgan Schneiderlin has been called into the France squad to replace him. (@equipedefrance)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was asked if he’d go back to Malmö and said he’s too good for the Swedish league. (ESPN FC)

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Giuseppe Rossi’s agent says he should have picked the USMNT. It’s okay to laugh. (SI)

The Guardian’s guide to every Euro 2016 player.

Andrew Flint on the billionaire who’s changing Russian soccer. (These Football Times)

Ted Knutson on the argument over Marcus Rashford’s ability. (Stats Bomb)

Friendlies: Nine games (from 10:30 a.m.) -- Spain vs. South Korea early should be good, and Mexico vs. Chile is on late.

MLS: Three games (from 7 p.m.) -- Union vs. Crew is the early game and most watchable.