December 12, (THEWILL) – Barcelona are investigating allegations that a former director of the club’s youth team sexually abused kids at a public school.
According to the Catalan newspaper ARA, over 60 of Albert Benaiges’ former students have accused him of sexually abusing them while he was a physical education teacher at a Barcelona public school.
Following the revelation, authorities in northeastern Spain announced the launch of an investigation even though Benaiges has denied any wrongdoing.
“I have never hurt anyone and if I have done it hasn’t been intentionally,” Benaiges said in his defense.“I have an adopted son and four foster children; my conscience is very clear, I have never forced anybody and I have denounced pedophiles.”
From 1991 through 2011, Benaiges worked at Barcelona’s youth training facility, where Andres Iniesta and Xavi both played.
Following Joan Laporta’s election as president, Benaiges returned to Barcelona last year. The 71-year-old resigned last week for personal reasons, according to the club.
Laporta stated that the club is looking into the information on the matter: “This man who left the club for personal reasons was hired for his talent at finding players and evaluating the talent of young players.
“What the club is doing is collecting all the information that is coming out so we can make an official statement.
“I will also say that anyone who tries to link Barcelona to his issue in an improper manner will receive a firm response by the club to defend its legitimate interests.”
“I don’t have any information that there has been any type of these episodes,” Barcelona head coach Xavi said at a pre-match press conference. “Although that does not mean that they did not happen.
“He was my coach and I never had any suspicions. I am very surprised and stunned, I didn’t expect it. This is a very delicate, very complicated issue.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
