Eric Abidal has reflected on the gesture made by then Barcelona teammate Dani Alves when he discovered he needed a liver transplant.
On from diagnosis in 2011 of a tumour on the organ, the defender underwent a liver transplant, for which his Brazilian colleague tried to step forward and assist in.
“My relationship with Alves goes beyond friendship,” explained Abidal on Catalunya Radio this week.
“He offered to donate to me his liver. Of course he could not give it to me as he is a professional athlete.
“It was very touching that he wanted to be my donor, he is a great person.
“Our relationship goes much deeper than friendship.”
Abidal was asked of recent statements given to L’Equipe, where he spoke of the club’s decision to release him this summer as being economic.
The player also reported that Barca did not pay him during his illness, for which they responded.
“What I think and what I say about Barca is true, and myself also. I have no problems with anyone, not with Rosell, nor Zubizarreta, not with Tito, nor the fans, nor with the Catalans.
“It is all good and I return there always with joy.”
