The case relates to the existence of a sex tape which features Valbuena. Benzema is accused of pressuring Valbuena, who played alongside the Real Madrid star on the French national team, to pay blackmailers to prevent the video from becoming public.

When the investigation first started, Benzema, who was suspended by the French national team as a result, denied the allegations. He could face up to five years in prison if found guilty.

Benzema has scored 27 goals in 81 appearances for the French national team but hasn’t represented his country since the incident with Valbuena.

Representatives for Benzema and Valbuena did not respond to CNN’s requests for comment.

“I am dismayed to note that one is forced to distort the elements gathered in the investigation to justify sending my client before the tribunal. We will explain ourselves before the judges of the tribunal to demonstrate this abuse.”

Cormier said in 2015 that Benzema had “taken no part in this blackmail attempt” and that the case had gone public “in a fallacious manner.”

Real Madrid backed Benzema at the time with President Florentino Perez saying the player’s actions were “in good faith.”

Valbuena, 36, currently plays for Greek champion Olympiacos, which he joined in 2019. His club career has also seen his play for Marseille and Lyon in France and Fenerbahce in Turkey. He hasn’t represented the French national team since the incident with Benzema.