Barcelona Midfielder Rodri Apologises for Calling Valencia 'Weak'
· Sports · BBC Sport
Barcelona midfielder Rodri has issued a formal apology to the Valencia squad after being filmed appearing to label the team as "very weak" during a match. The incident occurred while Rodri sat on the bench at Mestella Stadium following his substitution during Barcelona's 5-0 victory on Sunday. Broadcaster Movistar captured the player speaking to teammates Pau Cubarsi and Raphinha, with lip-readers interpreting his comments as a critique of Valencia's inability to cross the halfway line. Rodri later clarified that his remarks were a private expression of surprise rather than an attempt to mock a struggling opponent. He confirmed he has personally apologised to Valencia captain Jose Gaya and the entire team.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the intense scrutiny professional athletes face from broadcast technology and the potential for private sideline comments to trigger public backlash. Valencia, currently at the bottom of the La Liga table, remains a significant club whose performance is closely monitored by the league.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.