BARCELONA, 25 November (H.S.): 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.

The club added that it regrets any perception of inconsistency and that its tributes for victims of male violence are an essential and non-negotiable value.This incident is not the first time Boateng's presence has sparked controversy. Last month, a similar coaching internship at his former club, Bayern Munich, was canceled following strong protests from fans who displayed banners objecting to his presence due to the domestic violence conviction .

Boateng was fined by a Munich court last year after being found guilty of assaulting the mother of his twin daughters during a holiday in 2018.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar