Aduriz on Cup final anthem ‘smile’

Athletic Bilbao striker Aritz Aduriz has explained why he was smiling during the Spanish national anthem before the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.

Aduriz was criticised by some for what they perceived as a lack of respect, and the treatment of the national anthem is being investigated by the LFP.

Speaking at a Press conference prior to Athletic’s friendly game against Arcos, Aduriz has, with some incredulity, explained the situation.

“It seems absurd to have to explain this. I’m going to once because I haven’t had the chance to do so publically,” he began, AS reports.

“In the warm-up I was looking for my family, who were in a very specific part of the stadium, and I couldn’t find them.

“And during the anthem we were facing the stand, it was a chance to try and see them, because it’s impossible when the game starts.

“By chance I found them and I smiled, one of many smiles when I see my family, and that is what happened, plain and simple.

“Anyone who wants to look for other reasons might find them but that is what happened. Legal action? It’s an open process.”

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