Barcelona midfielder Rodri issues apology for comments about Valencia | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Rodri has apologised after being filmed making disparaging remarks about Valencia during last weekend’s 5-0 win at Mestalla. He later addressed the incident publicly following the 5-1 defeat of Feyenoord in the Champions League.

According to Goal.com, Movistar cameras picked up a private dugout conversation between Rodri, Pau Cubarsi and Raphinha, which was later broadcast and drew fury from Valencia supporters. In the clip, Rodri suggested Valencia were weak and struggled to cross halfway.

Aware of the backlash, he contacted Valencia captain Jose Gaya to explain his comments and offer an apology.

Post-match, he said he was sorry to anyone offended, adding that he had called his friend Gaya and apologised to the squad. He stressed the remarks were an expression of surprise, not an attempt to mock, and that it was a private conversation. He reiterated his respect for Valencia and said he hopes they return to their level.

The episode did not distract Barcelona on the night, with Rodri influential in a 5-1 win over Feyenoord. Karim Adeyemi and Lamine Yamal scored, Raphinha struck twice, and Gabriel Jesus marked his debut with a goal.

Barcelona now turn to Levante on Sunday as they look to continue a perfect start and remain top of the league.

Source: Goal.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”