Barcelona defends Boateng visit as it reaffirms commitment to fighting gender-based violence

Barcelona says it remains committed to eradicating gender-based violence, even as it faces backlash over a one-off visit by Jerome Boateng.

Earlier this week, the club released a video on X showing Boateng chatting with Robert Lewandowski during a training session at Ciutat Esportiva.

Boateng, 37, has a suspended €200,000 fine after a Munich court found him guilty of premeditated bodily harm against his former partner. He denies injuring the mother of his twins and is appealing the 2021 verdict; the Munich case is the third trial in this matter.

The post appeared two days before Barcelona’s return to the Nou Camp and ahead of a minute of silence to honor women killed by male violence on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Reaction on social media was critical, with fans describing the post as embarrassing. Barcelona’s statement clarified that Boateng has no contractual role with the club and that the visit was a one-off, personal step toward obtaining a coaching licence, not an official appointment.

They added that tributes to women murdered by male violence remain a core value and that nothing about the episode was meant to undermine that message.

Boateng, a member of Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad, ended his playing career in September and is pursuing coaching qualifications after securing a UEFA B licence in late 2024. He previously canceled a Bayern Munich coaching internship amid fan protests. It is noted that another former partner of Boateng died by suicide in 2021 after reports surfaced about the end of their relationship.

Key Takeaways

• Barcelona reiterates its anti-violence stance amid criticism of Boateng’s visit.
• The visit is described as a personal, educational step tied to Boateng’s coaching path, not an official club role.
• The club emphasizes that tributes against gender-based violence remain non-negotiable.
• Public reaction underscores the delicate balance between branding and social responsibility for football clubs.

Expert comment: A sports ethics analyst said that clubs must clearly separate image matters from sensitive social issues to avoid misinterpretation, and urged transparent communication around non-sporting visits.

Summary: Barcelona defended the one-off visit by Boateng while reiterating its commitment to fighting gender-based violence. The episode highlights how clubs navigate branding, public messaging, and social responsibility. As Boateng continues toward coaching qualifications, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for careful alignment between club values and on-site activities.

Key insight: When clubs engage with high-profile figures on sensitive topics, clear boundaries and messaging are essential to prevent misinterpretation and protect social commitments. BBC Sport

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