Real Madrid’s Angel Di Maria has apologised for any offence caused after he was alleged to have gestured to the crowd after being substituted.
Di Maria denied making an offensive gesture to his genitals but accepted that his actions could have been misinterpreted.
“I did not do anything to the public, nor to the Coach , but if there were people who felt bad for that I apologise,” he told Real Madrid TV.
“I made a normal gesture as I was leaving the pitch. It’s a normal thing for any man to do. You do it on the field many times.
“Seen on television it lasts one thousandth of a second. It’s nothing.”
Real Madrid have encouraged Di Maria to explain what happened in an attempt to clarify the situation, a move with which Di Maria is in full agreement.
“It’s right for the club to insist on this and for me to explain what happened.
“I believe it’s good to talk to the fans directly and explain what happened on the field.”
Di Maria concluded by discussing his current role in the Madrid team, expressing satisfaction with his status.
“I’m fine – apart from this issue. I still work in the same way and the Coach is relying on me.
“It has to be this way. We’ll work until the end of the season. It’s the best way to get the titles we desire.”
