Salvador Illa, the President of the Catalan Government, faced backlash from Espanyol supporters after his comments during and after FC Barcelona’s title-clinching match against Real Madrid.
Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 2-0 at the Spotify Camp Nou, with goals from Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres, securing the La Liga title in a memorable night. Illa, a member of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE), spoke to Movistar+ at halftime, describing the match as “beautiful, with great goals and sportsmanship.” He added, “I’m delighted that Barça is winning.”
When asked if he supported Espanyol, Illa said, “As President of the Generalitat, I’ll be very happy if Barça wins La Liga.” His remarks sparked outrage among Espanyol fans, particularly as their team is struggling—winless in 18 matches and just two points above the relegation zone.
Social media was flooded with criticism. One fan wrote, “How can you be so fake, claiming to be an Espanyol fan?” Another commented, “He’s ashamed to say he supports Espanyol. You can see where his loyalties lie.” Some compared Illa unfavorably to Madrid’s mayor, Almeida, who publicly sang Atlético Madrid’s anthem without hesitation.
After Barcelona’s victory, Illa continued to praise the team. Speaking to TV3, he highlighted the club’s mix of homegrown talent and external signings as key to success. He also called the Camp Nou renovation “a jewel for Catalonia.” On social media platform X, he posted congratulations to Barça, saying, “Congratulations to the players, coaching staff, and all the Blaugrana fans.”
The controversy underscores the tension between Illa’s political role and personal club allegiances, with Espanyol supporters feeling betrayed by his apparent favoritism towards Barcelona.
