Eric Abidal 'did not receive illegal liver transplant' as Barcelona make bizarre denial about former defender
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Barcelona have denied their former left-back Eric Abidal underwent an illegal liver transplant in 2012.
The French defender had the operation - with the organ reportedly donated by his cousin - while he was playing for the Catalan giants.
He had been diagnosed with a tumour on his liver in 2011 and underwent an operation several days later.
But that did resolve the problem and Abidal had the transplant the following year.
Now a newspaper report in Spain has claimed that Barcelona used the story about his relative to cover up the truth - that they had purchased the organ on the black market.
(Image: Getty Images)
(Image: AFP)
But Barcelona have denied the claims, saying: "There was no type of irregularity in the player's liver transplant.
"We have complete confidence in the Hospital Clinic and don't doubt Abidal's honour or that of his foundation."
El Confidencial reported that Spanish police have intercepted phone calls from former Barcelona president Sandro Rosell to an unknown person discussing Abidal's situation.
(Image: AFP)
The case was heard at court as a result of the investigation but was closed when no wrongdoing was found.
Abidal left the club in 2013 and had spells at Monaco and Olympiakos before retiring.
Last month he returned to Barcelona, replacing Roberto Fernanez as director of football.