Sofia Quijada
Barcelona Addresses Criticism Over Jerome Boateng’s Visit
Barcelona has reiterated its commitment to combating gender-based violence following backlash over a visit by Jerome Boateng, the former Bayern Munich and Germany defender.
The club posted a video on X showing Boateng at the Ciutat Esportiva, where he was seen interacting with former teammate Robert Lewandowski during training. The visit sparked criticism due to Boateng’s legal history involving domestic violence.
Legal Background and Controversy
Boateng, 37, was fined €200,000 and received a warning last year after being found guilty of premeditated bodily harm against his former partner. He denied the allegations, which stemmed from an incident in 2018, and had previously appealed an initial guilty verdict in 2021. This was the third trial in the case.
The video was posted just two days before Barcelona’s first game at the revamped Nou Camp stadium in over two years. The club had announced a minute’s silence to honor victims of gender-based violence, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
Fan Reactions and Club Response
Fans took to social media to express their dismay, calling the video an “embarrassment” and “ironic.” In response, Barcelona issued a statement clarifying that Boateng had no contractual relationship with the club and that his visit was a one-off, educational trip as part of his coaching license process.
“The club remains fully committed to combating gender-based violence. We understand the sensitivity surrounding this issue and regret any perception of inconsistency.”
The statement emphasized that the club’s tributes to victims of gender-based violence are “an essential and non-negotiable value” and that the visit was not intended to undermine this message.
Boateng’s Coaching Aspirations
Boateng, a member of Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad, recently ended his playing career and plans to become a coach. He is set to receive his UEFA B coaching license in November 2024. However, he had to cancel a coaching internship at Bayern Munich last month due to fan protests.
Another ex-girlfriend of Boateng took her own life in 2021, with reports suggesting he had recently ended their relationship.