Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada has apologised for punching an opponent during a wild ending to yesterday’s Segunda Division clash with Huesca.
Andrada lost his cool after receiving a second yellow card for pushing Jorge Pulido and went back to the Huesca captain, striking him in the face, sparking a wild melee that resulted in the dismissals of Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza left-back Dani Tasende.
Both clubs have condemned the violence that tarnished the end of a crunch Aragonese derby that Huesca won 1-0.
I’m sorry – Andrada
Andrada, 35, was quick to issue an apology, telling Zaragoza’s social channels: “I really regret what happened. It’s not a good image for the club, for the people or for a professional like me. I really regret it. Throughout my career, I’ve only been sent off once when I handled the ball outside the area and you can see from my career path that it was an extreme situation where I crossed the line and I reacted like that.
“But I really regret it and I wouldn’t do it again because I know I’m a public figure, a professional with a career of many years. I also said sorry to Jorge Pulido because we’re colleagues and it was an action from me where I disconnected in that moment. I’m here for the consequences from the league or, if they want me to go and give explanations, I’m available for that.”
Former Argentina international Andrada is on loan from Mexican side Monterrey. He is unlikely to play for Zaragoza again and is facing a lengthy global ban.
Zaragoza said in a statement: “We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred.
“These events do not represent the values of Real Zaragoza or its fans, who throughout its history have been characterised by sportsmanship, courage, and respect for the opponent.
“We are role models and examples for many fans, especially children, who cheer us on at every match and aspire to one day become one of their idols.
“That is why these regrettable images should never have been seen.”
