Valencia boss accepts Rodri apology but criticises ‘ill-judged’ comments

Valencia manager Carlos Corberan has accepted Rodri’s public apology after the Barcelona player was filmed describing the club as “weak” and “extremely bad” following their 5-0 defeat at Mestalla.

Cameras from the Spanish television programme El Dia Despues captured Rodri speaking to Pau Cubarsi on the substitutes’ bench during the match between Barcelona and Valencia.

The footage prompted widespread criticism, leading Rodri to apologise publicly after Barcelona’s Champions League match against Feyenoord. He said his words had been an “expression of surprise” during a private conversation.

Rodri also contacted Valencia captain Jose Gaya directly to apologise to him and the rest of the squad.

Speaking at a news conference before Valencia’s match against Sevilla, Corberan said he accepted the apology but believed the comments were inappropriate.

“For me, they were completely ill-judged words because I do not think they came from a place of respect for fellow professionals,” Corberan said, according to Sport.

“At the time it happened, Gaya took the initiative to speak with Rodri. He later offered a public apology, which we accept, and we understand that it was the appropriate apology.”

Corberan also highlighted Rodri’s status in football and the circumstances in which the comments were made.

“In the end, even if it happened in the context of a conversation between two team-mates, we know what we represent,” he added.

The Valencia manager referred to Rodri’s connection with Mestalla and his importance to Spain’s national team.

Rodri was given a warm reception by Valencia supporters when he was substituted during the match, with the home crowd acknowledging his role as one of Spain’s leading players during their recent successes.

“He is a very important player and, in addition, he was affected by Mestalla and by what the achievement they made with the national team represents,” Corberan said.

“We accept this apology because we understand that it is the least that can be done in response to comments or words that were not appropriate.”