Schweinsteiger and Das Erste deny racist allegations from Ivory Coast game

The former Bayern Munich midfielder has given his explanation on the comments and feels his words were misconstrued.

Photo: Ronny Hartmann/Getty Images.

Former international Bastian Schweinsteiger has responded to the racism accusations by Côte d'Ivoire coach Emerse Faé after their Group E encounter with Germany. 

“I was talking about football, not about people. This is a football analysis. Nothing more and nothing less. I absolutely did not intend to offend anyone," Schweinsteiger explained. 

Schweinsteiger's employer Das Erste – who broadcast the show where the 2014 World Cup winner made the comments – also defended him through it's sports coordinator:

“Bastian expressed his expectations regarding the Côte d'Ivoire team's playing style. In doing so, he summarized his experiences and observations from recent matches.

"This wasn't about the individuals, but rather a footballing assessment. We cannot detect any form of racism in it or in the choice of words.

“If Emerse Faé were to speak directly with Bastian, his suspicion would be dispelled in no time – I'm sure of that. Maybe such an opportunity will arise during the tournament.”