Éric Abidal has revealed that former Barcelona teammate Daniel Alves offered to donate his liver when the Frenchman needed a transplant last year.
Alves is wearing Abidal's No 22 shirt this season at Barcelona as a tribute to his close friend, who was plagued by a tumour in his liver which eventually led to a transplant.
Now playing for AS Monaco, Abidal said that his relationship with Alves is much more profound that a simple, casual acquaintance.
During an interview with Catalunya Ràdio, Abidal said: "My relationship with Dani goes much further than him taking my old No 22 shirt.
"When I had to undergo surgery, he offered to donate his liver. Of course, it's completely out of the question because he is a professional footballer.
"Our relationship goes much deeper than friendship."
Abidal's cousin Gerard ended up donating part of his liver for the 34-year-old's operation in April 2012.
Éric Abidal and Daniel Alves were close friends during their time at Barcelona Photo: Getty Images |
Alves is wearing Abidal's No 22 shirt this season at Barcelona as a tribute to his close friend, who was plagued by a tumour in his liver which eventually led to a transplant.
Now playing for AS Monaco, Abidal said that his relationship with Alves is much more profound that a simple, casual acquaintance.
During an interview with Catalunya Ràdio, Abidal said: "My relationship with Dani goes much further than him taking my old No 22 shirt.
"When I had to undergo surgery, he offered to donate his liver. Of course, it's completely out of the question because he is a professional footballer.
"Our relationship goes much deeper than friendship."
Abidal's cousin Gerard ended up donating part of his liver for the 34-year-old's operation in April 2012.
Open an account with bet365 today and claim your 100% Deposit Bonus!
Related links: Personal Also see:
- Spain & Ecuador halt play for 11th minute tribute to Christian Benítez
- Barcelona kit created by Down Syndrome designer auctioned for charity
- Lionel Messi sends signed jersey to snubbed young fan
- Manchester United players meet Fukushima evacuee children
- Pic of the day: Man United fans' tribute to Man City legend Bert Trautmann