Albert Benaiges, who is accused of raping several former schoolchildren, has denied the allegations.
Former Barcelona youth team leader Albert Benaiges has been charged with felony criminal mischief for firing on a sculpture with a shotgun at a public school in Barcelona, Spanish media reported on Saturday.
The Catalan newspaper ARA reports that more than 60 of Benaiges’ former students have been accused of sexually abusing him while he was a physical education teacher at their public school. ARA said Benaiges has denied any wrongdoing.
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez spoke on Saturday after officials in northeastern Spain said they were opening an investigation into the allegations. Hernández said he was “surprised” by the news.
Apparently no former Barcelona player agreed.
Benaiges, 71, was a key member of Barcelona’s youth academy from 1991-2011, including a generation of best players at the club, including Andres Iniesta and Xavi.
After traveling abroad with foreign clubs, Benaiges returned to Barcelona last year following the return of Joan Laporta to his leadership. He resigned last week for various reasons.
“I have no idea that there have been any such episodes, although that doesn’t mean it didn’t happen,” Xavi told a news conference earlier.
“She was my teacher, and I had no doubt in her mind. I am shocked and amazed, I do not expect.
“This is a very difficult, very difficult issue,” Xavi added.
“I have spoken to the coaches because we love Albert Benaiges so much. We were very surprised. We always had a very good relationship, and he left a very good legacy. It is a fair path to choose from,” he added.
Barcelona has not commented publicly on the investigation.
