Bournemouth have taken the decision to suspend right-back Álex Jiménez while the club conducts an internal investigation into alleged direct messages with someone claiming to be 15 years old on social media, a move that has sent shockwaves through the Premier League and raised serious questions about online conduct by high-profile athletes and club responsibilities.

Bournemouth confirmed they were “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,” adding that he would not be part of the squad for their upcoming match and that they would not comment further during the inquiry.

The allegations surfaced after screenshots, said to be Instagram direct messages, began spreading online. The messages, which have not been authenticated, appear to show Jiménez allegedly being informed that the person he was speaking to was 16, followed by the question,

“Would u still meet”.

The alleged reply reads,

“Yes! Because you're very pretty”,

Before another message reportedly adds,

“A little small but oh well”.

In a separate part of the alleged conversation, the individual writes,

“Do u not care im 15???”,

With the supposed response reading,

“Well of course it matters to me. But I like smaller girls. I've never been with a 15”.

None of these exchanges have been independently verified, and Jiménez has not issued any public statement addressing the claims.

In its statement, AFC Bournemouth said:

“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.”

Reaction online has been intense, with many urging caution until the club concludes its investigation and reminding others that the screenshots remain allegations. With the situation ongoing, Bournemouth now continue their Premier League campaign without the young defender while the inquiry proceeds.