FC Barcelona has faced significant backlash after posting a video of former Germany and Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng visiting the club’s training ground last week.
The controversy stems from the fact that Boateng was found guilty last year of premeditated bodily harm against a former partner and handed a suspended fine of 200,000 euros.
The criticism intensified because the club posted the “Welcome” video just two days before announcing a minute’s silence at the Nou Camp, intended to honour victims of male violence for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Fans described the juxtaposition as “ironic.”
In a statement, Barcelona defended the visit, clarifying that Boateng has no contract with the club and his presence was a “one-off, educational visit as part of his personal process toward obtaining a coaching licence.”
The club asserted its full commitment to combating gender-based violence, adding: “We understand the sensitivity surrounding this issue and regret any perception of inconsistency.”
Boateng, who retired in September and is pursuing a coaching career, had to cancel a coaching internship at Bayern Munich last month due to similar fan protests.
