The footballing world was in shock after former Barcelona defender Dani Alves was convicted of sexual assault following an incident that allegedly occurred on December 30th. Now, as per new reports, Alves has been moved from the Barcelona main prison to a smaller, more secure facility as a precautionary measure by the authorities.
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Reports also say that this is a common practice for high-profile inmates, allowing the authorities closer supervision. This practice helps maintain protection from other inmates towards them. Alves will be given their own personal shower, rather than having to share it with other prisoners.
Like many football fans, Alves’ former teammate and Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez also expressed shock after hearing this news. While talking in a press conference, Xavi talked about how he was in a state of shock after hearing the news and felt bad for Alves. He said, "It's difficult to comment on a situation like this. I am surprised and shocked. I am in a state of shock. Justice will rule whatever it is, we can't go in. I feel very bad for him. I'm shocked."
But these comments received some flack from fans and media, pushing the Barca manager to issue a clarification where he stated an apology towards the victim and expressed that his statements were misconstrued.
He said, "I would like to clarify what I said yesterday about Alves. I was misunderstood and I wasn't forceful and I think it's important that I explain myself. It's a very sensitive and important issue. We have to condemn all these acts, whoever does it. I apologize to the victim and to the victims of sexual violence. I am surprised that Dani could have done any of these things. I understand the criticism and I apologize."
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