Luis Enrique defends Dani Alves’ outburst

Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has defended right-back Dani Alves’ emotional outburst following the player’s second half substitution against Manchester City on Tuesday night.

TV cameras showed the Brazilian kicking a water bottle in anger – splashing several people including a police officer – as he made his way to the Barcelona bench upon being removed by Enrique.

The incident raised questions about the 31-year-old’s happiness at Barcelona, due to the defender’s ongoing contract negotiations with the Catalan club.

Earlier this month, the player’s agent mentioned Barcelona had yet to extend a new offer to the Brazilian, and revealed other clubs had been in contact with the right-back regarding a summer move. The defender will be out of contract with Barcelona at the end of the season and has been free to negotiate with other teams since January.

But Alves took to his Instagram account shortly after the match to quell any concerns about his mental state.

“If I make a mistake like I did [against Manchester City], I apologize, especially to anyone I may have upset or in this case got wet,” Alves said. “I don’t know how long my relationship with this club will last, but, as long as I’m here, everyone close to me will be proud of my hard work and dedication.”

When asked if Alves’ was bottling his rage and being effected by the ongoing contract issue, Luis Enrique complimented the defender and stated he had no concerns about the player’s professionalism.

“Dani is one of the nicest, most talkative guys in the dressing room, with a competitive spirit,” Enrique said during his pre-match press conference today.

“I already knew him as a player, and now from a closer distance I can say that he’s an example of what a professional should be.”

“What happened is normal, it always happens. Every footballer always wants to play. Some show it one way, others in a different way.”

Programming note: Granada vs. Barcelona will be shown LIVE on Saturday starting at 9:55am EST on beINSPORTS and DishWorld.