Bournemouth have suspended right-back Alex Jimenez following allegations that he exchanged inappropriate messages with a 15-year-old girl. The 21-year-old, who joined the Premier League club permanently in February, will miss Saturday's match against Fulham as the club conducts an investigation.
Allegations emerge on social media
Screenshots of a text exchange between Jimenez and the teenager were posted on social media on Friday. One message reportedly included a selfie of the player with a suggestive caption. There is no suggestion that Jimenez ever met the girl in person.
Club statement
AFC Bournemouth released a statement on Friday afternoon confirming the suspension. 'The club understand the seriousness of the matter and it is currently being investigated,' the statement read. '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's season at Bournemouth
Jimenez initially joined Bournemouth on loan from AC Milan last summer before the club made the move permanent for £16.5 million in February. The Spanish defender has made 32 appearances for the Cherries this season, establishing himself as a key player under manager Andoni Iraola.
The club has not provided a timeline for the investigation, and no further details about the alleged messages have been released. Bournemouth will face Fulham at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday without their first-choice right-back.
