Xavi apologizes as Barca boss faces heavy criticism for Dani Alves arrest comments

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Barcelona head coach Xavi apologized on Sunday after facing an outpouring of criticism for his comments after Dani Alves was arrested on sexual assault allegations.

Xavi, a former teammate and coach of Alves, told a press conference on Saturday he was “in shock” after hearing the news.

Brazilian right-back Alves was arrested in Barcelona on Friday after allegedly assaulting a woman in a nightclub toilet.

The 39-year-old, who was denied bail, denied committing the offense when speaking to Spanish broadcaster Antena 3 in early January.

Xavi also said on Saturday that “justice will dictate” the situation, but he faced criticism, particularly on social media, for focusing on Alves, rather than expressing concern for the alleged victim.

He sought to clarify that after Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Getafe on Sunday, saying: “What I said was misinterpreted, or I wasn’t as energetic as I should have been, but it is important that I explain myself.

“This is a difficult and sensitive subject. Yesterday I ignored the victim, but I want to make it clear that any act of gender-based violence or rape must be condemned, whether Dani or someone else does it.

“I feel bad that Danic could have done it, but on this issue you have to be very strong. Yesterday I was not very lucky with my words and I apologize. I know my voice is very important , because I represent a club like Barça. I’m really sorry, it wasn’t a pleasant day for me.”

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