Barcelona welcomes Jerome Boateng after Bayern Munich controversy

Jerome Boateng has found temporary refuge at Barcelona’s training ground after a turbulent period marked by controversy in Germany.

Following his summer departure from LASK Linz, the 37-year-old defender recently began a coaching internship at Bayern Munich. However, backlash from supporters, who protested against his involvement due to his 2021 assault conviction, led the club to end the arrangement. Fans displayed banners calling for a “line against misogynistic violence” and insisted “there’s no place for villains in our club.”

Boateng’s meeting with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, his former coach at Bayern, provides him with an opportunity to maintain fitness and consider his next career move while remaining off the pitch. For now, he’s a free agent, navigating life after his legal troubles and amid intense public scrutiny. Previous reports have noted allegations and testimonies against Boateng, including fines for assault and accusations from family members about a pattern of abuse.

With Bayern’s program shut down, Barcelona’s gesture allows Boateng space to focus on his future, even as Germany’s football community debates what role he should play in the game going forward.