Emre Can has apologised for his comments on Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial red card on Wednesday night.
Ronaldo saw red for a coming-together with Valencia defender Jeison Murillo in the Champions League Group H opener but most feel it was harsh to send the Portuguese superstar off.
The 33-year-old grabbed Murillo’s head but Ronaldo was brought to tears of disbelief after referee Felix Brych gave him his marching orders.
Juve boss Max Allegri hit out at the decision and so too did Can, whose choice of words has come in for criticism.
“That’s supposed to be a red!?” Can said after the game.
“I just heard that he said it was because of hair pulling. We’re not women, we’re playing football.
“If you’re giving that as a red card, you can be sent off for any foul. One hundred per cent, that is not a red card.”
After facing ridicule for his remarks regarding women, Can issued an apology on Thursday afternoon.
“I would like to take a moment to clear the air regarding the comments I made after last night’s game,” Can wrote on Twitter. “My response after seeing the video footage of Cristiano’s sending off seemed to have caused some commotion.
I would like to take a moment to clear the air regarding comments I made after last nights game.
Please read the full statement below⤵️Yours
Emre pic.twitter.com/SLvdF6qf33— Emre Can (@emrecan_) September 20, 2018
“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 teammate regarding a wrong decision which could have affected our game.
“I sincerely apologise if any of the comments I made have caused any harm.”
It looks likely that Ronaldo will be available for his return to Old Trafford on October 23 because his offence is not considered serious enough for a two-match ban.
