{
  "id": 6475062,
  "title": "Barcelona star issues public apology to Valencia",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/09/barcelona-star-issues-public-apology-to-valencia",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-09T21:10:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/barcelona-star-issues-public-apology-211000048.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Rodri, a Barcelona star, has publicly apologized to Valencia after some controversial remarks made during a match. The incident occurred when Rodri was substituted during Barcelona's 5-0 victory over Valencia, and he was caught on camera insulting the Valencia players. The 30-year-old stated that he was surprised by the level of the Valencia team, calling them \"very weak.\" This remark was made during an exchange with Pau Cubarsí, which was not meant to be made public. Following the backlash and criticism from Valencia, Rodri felt it was necessary to clarify his statement. In an interview with the media after Barcelona's Champions League win against Feyenoord, Rodri admitted his apology to Valencia's fans and players. He also called Valencia's captain, Gayà, expressing his regret for any mistake he may have made. Rodri hopes that Valencia will return to their previous level.",
  "summary": "Barcelona star Rodri has on Wednesday sent a public apology message the way of all associated with La Liga rivals Valencia.This of course comes after the summer arrival in Catalunya’s capital sparke...",
  "key_points": [
    "Rodri, Barcelona star, apologized to Valencia after controversial remarks.",
    "He called Valencia players \"very weak\" during a match substitution.",
    "Rodri clarified his statement in media interview, expressed regret."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}