Barcelona react to criticism over Boateng's visit

Barcelona affirms their "full commitment to fighting gender-based violence" amidst backlash following a visit by former Bayern Munich and Germany defender Jerome Boateng to the club.

Last week, the club shared a video, external on X titled 'Welcome to the Ciutat Esportiva, Jerome Boateng,' showing him embracing and conversing with former teammate Robert Lewandowski during training.

Boateng received a suspended fine of 200,000 euros (£176,000) and a warning from a Munich court last year after being found guilty of intentional bodily harm against his former partner.

The 37-year-old denied causing injury to the mother of his twin daughters during a holiday argument in 2018 and appealed an initial guilty verdict in 2021.

The trial in Munich last year was the third in Boateng's case.

Barcelona posted the video of Boateng two days before the club's inaugural game at their newly renovated Nou Camp stadium after more than two years.

Before the match, the club announced, external a minute's silence "in memory of all women killed by male violence" to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

The video and the subsequent club announcement drew criticism on social media, with fans labeling it as an "embarrassment" and "ironic."

In a statement, Barcelona clarified: "Jerome Boateng has no contractual relationship or active role within the club.

"His visit was solely a one-time, educational visit as part of his personal journey to obtain a coaching license.

"It was not an institutional invitation for any sporting or representative duties.

"The club remains fully committed to combating gender-based violence. We acknowledge the sensitivity of this issue and regret any perceived inconsistency.

"Our tributes and moments of remembrance for women killed by male violence are fundamental and non-negotiable values for us, and nothing that occurred was meant to undermine that message."

Last month, Boateng, a member of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning team, had to cancel a coaching internship at Bayern Munich due to protests and fan backlash.

Boateng concluded his playing career in September and aims to become a coach after obtaining his UEFA B coaching license in November 2024.

Another former girlfriend of Boateng took her own life in 2021. Reports in Germany at the time indicated he had recently ended their relationship.