That quote, particularly devoid of context, is outright libel.
Key point: the comment was made before the files were released.
Certainly failure to make that point clear is libel.
The jury is out on whether the caption, with caveat, is also libel.
It was also made while the McCanns were still arguidos. In view of that fact there is no way a senior british police officer would have publically said
anything which even suggested the PJ were completely wrong. It could have created a 'diplomatic incident' and certainly damaged relations between the two police forces. So IMO he did the best he could and attempted to take the middle ground. However some sceptics always totally ignore the point he made i.e. - 'whilst one or both may be innocent'.
IMO the McCanns were naieve to expect a release of any files whilst they were arguidos.
Things have moved on apace since those days years ago, and I would be surprised if the same officer would make the same statement now.