Sexual Assault: Xavi Hernandez apologizes over comment he made after Dani Alves’ arrest

Barcelona coach, Xavi Hernandez has issued an apology after being called out over a comment he made after Brazilian veteran footballer and former teammate, Dani Alves, was arrested for sexual assault.

Reacting to the former Barcelona defender’s arrest, Xavi had said that he was “in a state of shock” and also “feels very bad for Dani”.

Following the backlash that trailed the comment, Xavi has now apologized, adding that the timing and wording of his statement were ill-judged.

He said;

“I would like to clarify something I said yesterday. I think what I meant was misunderstood. I was not forceful enough with my words.

“It is quite a lurid and important subject. I left out the victims and I think all these acts should be condemned. Whether Dani or anyone else does them. I was unfortunate and I apologise to the victim and to the victims of these acts of gender-based violence and this type of rape.

“Having said that, I am sorry that Dani was able to do this kind of act. I am shocked. All my support to the victim. Yesterday I was not right in my words, there was a lot of criticism and I understand that.

“I feel bad, I really do. I have not had a good day. I know my voice is very important, I am now part of, for me, the biggest club in history and I feel bad about this misunderstanding. Maybe I wasn’t too forceful with my words. I am truly sorry.”