Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez has apologised after his initial reaction to Dani Alves being arrested and sent to jail following an alleged sexual assault on a woman in a nightclub.
Report: Dani Alves To Be Arrested
Speaking to the media ahead of his side's LaLiga match at the weekend, the Spanish tactician caused a stir after appearing to sympathise with Alves, who was arrested last week on suspicion of sexual assault.
The 40-year-old was taken into custody on Friday after a woman accused him of sexually assaulting her in a Barcelona nightclub late last year, actions the right-back vehemently denied.
Xavi has since performed somewhat of a U-turn on his initial stance, admitting that, while he believes his words were misunderstood, he could have perhaps been clearer in condemning what his former teammate and player has been accused of.
"People misinterpreted what I was trying to say about the Dani Alves situation," he said, according to Barca Universal.
"I didn't mention the victims. It must be denounced. I was wrong, and I apologise.
"Regarding the Dani Alves case, these acts must be punished, coming from Dani or anyone else. I want to apologise and support the victim.
"I understand that they're not going through the best situation. I'm sorry."
Alves left the Catalan club as a free agent at the end of last season after the Blaugrana decided not to extend his deal.
UNAM Pumas, the Mexican side Alves had been contracted to after leaving the LaLiga giants, cut ties with the experienced footballer in light of the allegations.
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