BARCELONA: FC Barcelona has issued a statement clarifying that it remains “fully committed to combating gender-based violence” after facing widespread criticism for hosting former German defender Jerome Boateng at its training facility. The club came under fire last week after posting a video welcoming the retired player, who was convicted of premeditated bodily harm against a former partner.
The backlash intensified as the visit occurred just two days before Barcelona held a minute’s silence to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Fans and critics on social media described the club’s actions as an “embarrassment” and “ironic,” questioning the sincerity of the club’s commitment to social issues.
The Club’s ExplanationIn its response, Barcelona stressed that Boateng has “no contractual relationship or active role” with the club. The statement explained that his presence was a “one-off, educational visit” as part of his personal journey to obtain a coaching license and not an institutional invitation.
