Juventus midfielder Emre Can assured his comments about Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card “were never meant to degrade women, women’s football or equality.”
The controversy erupted on social media following the straight red card given to Ronaldo in last night’s 2-0 Champions League victory over Valencia.
Juventus midfielder Emre Can assured his comments about Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card “were never meant to degrade women, women’s football or equality.”
The controversy erupted on social media following the straight red card given to Ronaldo in last night’s 2-0 Champions League victory over Valencia.
Speaking to DAZN as he watched footage of the incident, Can said: “I’ve just learned that it was because he pulled Murillo’s hair. We’re not women, let’s play football.”
This prompted complaints that his reaction was sexist or degrading.
“I would like to take a moment to clear the air regarding the comments I made after last night’s game,” wrote the German international on Instagram Stories.
“My response after seeing the video footage of Cristiano sending off seamed to have caused some commotion.
“I would like to state that the comments made were never focused on nor meant to degrade women, women’s football or equality in any form.
“Everyone who knows me knows about my respect for women, equality and respect.
“My intention was to stick up for my team mate regarding a wrong decision which could have effected our game.
“I sincerely apologize if any of the comments I made have caused any harm.
“Yours, Emre.”
