AFC Bournemouth have excluded defender Alex Jimenez from their squad after alleged leaked messages involving underage girls surfaced on social media.
The 21-year-old, who has become a key player for Bournemouth this season, will not take part in the club’s upcoming Premier League match against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
The club confirmed the decision in an official statement released on Friday, revealing that the matter is currently under investigation.
“AFC Bournemouth are aware of posts circulating on social media involving right-back, Álex Jiménez.
“The club understand the seriousness of the matter, and it is currently being investigated.
“As a result, Alex will not be included in the squad for tomorrow’s Premier League game against Fulham and the club will be making no further comment at this time.”
Jimenez has featured in every Premier League fixture for Bournemouth since November and has started nearly all of those matches, becoming an important part of Andoni Iraola’s squad.
The controversy began after screenshots and videos allegedly showing conversations between the defender and a 15-year-old girl were shared online. Some of the messages circulating on social media allegedly contain disturbing remarks attributed to the player.
Bournemouth are currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table with only three games remaining as they continue their push for European qualification. The absence of Jimenez could be a major blow to the club during a crucial stage of the season while investigations continue into the allegations.
