Jerome Boateng Joins Barcelona for Coaching Internship

Jerome Boateng coaching internship begins at Barcelona as the former Germany and Bayern Munich defender looks to fulfill practical requirements for his coaching license. After facing backlash at Bayern due to his assault conviction, Boateng has found a new temporary home at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, working with Hansi Flick and his staff.

Jerome Boateng Coaching Internship at Barcelona

Jerome Boateng coaching internship is now underway at Barcelona. The 2014 World Cup winner was welcomed by head coach Hansi Flick and greeted by former Bayern teammate Robert Lewandowski. Boateng, who retired in September at age 37 after a final stint with Austria’s LASK, is pursuing his UEFA coaching qualifications and must complete hands-on training hours to earn his badges.

Barcelona officially acknowledged Boateng’s presence on their social media, posting a welcome video from their training complex. The club has allowed him to observe sessions under Flick, with whom Boateng won several titles at Bayern Munich and worked closely with the Germany national team. According to reports, Boateng is set to spend several days learning from Flick’s methods and gathering the practical experience needed for his coaching future.

Bayern Munich Internships Cancelled After Fan Protests

Prior to joining Barcelona, Boateng attempted to conduct a similar coaching internship at Bayern Munich, where he spent a major part of his playing career. However, the move was met with significant resistance from Bayern Munich fan groups, primarily due to his 2024 conviction for domestic assault.

Fans made their stance clear during recent matches, holding up banners with messages such as “Draw the line against misogynistic violence” and “No place for villains in our club—no more space for Boateng.” The backlash led Bayern’s management to cancel Boateng’s internship plans, sending a strong message about the club’s values in light of his legal history.

Details of Boateng’s Assault Conviction

Boateng’s coaching prospects have been overshadowed by his legal issues. In July 2024, a Munich court found Boateng guilty of intentional simple bodily harm against his ex-partner and mother of his children, Sherin Senler, following an incident in 2018. The court imposed a €200,000 suspended fine, a formal warning, and compelled him to donate to charity. This ruling came after earlier, larger fines in 2021 and 2022 were reduced on appeal.

Boateng admitted to a heated argument but denied physical assault. The verdict followed years of legal proceedings and public scrutiny, cementing the controversy that now surrounds his post-playing career.

Further Allegations and the Kasia Lenhardt Case

Boateng has faced even more scrutiny regarding his relationship with ex-girlfriend Kasia Lenhardt, who died by suicide in 2021. Following her death, reports surfaced about alleged abuse. German media revealed Lenhardt had documented injuries and intended to file charges against Boateng before her death, but prosecutors closed the case in 2025 due to a lack of evidence, as Lenhardt was unable to testify.

The situation intensified when a document surfaced, reportedly from Boateng’s mother, claiming he had abused women for years and implicating him in Lenhardt’s suicide. These revelations have added to the public debates about his place in football, both as a coach and as a former player.

Barcelona’s Decision and Ongoing Scrutiny

Despite the controversy, Barcelona has opened its doors for Boateng’s coaching development. The club’s choice has sparked debate among supporters and the wider football community, with many questioning whether figures with such histories should be welcomed in high-profile football environments.

As Boateng continues his internship, Barcelona’s first team, led by Flick, remain focused on their La Liga campaign, preparing for a crucial match against Athletic Club. The club’s willingness to facilitate Boateng’s practical coaching experience highlights the complex balance between second chances and accountability in modern sport.

Opinion: Should Football Welcome Boateng in Coaching?

Boateng’s journey from distinguished defender to aspiring coach is significant, but his legal and personal controversies cannot be ignored. While everyone has the right to rehabilitation, football clubs must weigh the impact their decisions have on victims, fans, and broader societal values. Barcelona’s decision will undoubtedly be watched closely, and it may set a precedent for how the sport handles individuals with difficult pasts.

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