FC Barcelona and Real Madrid are considered as two clubs in Spain that exist beyond footballing terms. Almost seen as political symbols of both Catalonia and Spain, the two European juggernauts have almost always been at odds. Moreover, these differences have not exactly calmed down in recent times either.
Despite the introduction of the European Super League, a project where the Clasico rivals came together, animosity remained. The recent Negreira case came about to ruin the dignity of FC Barcelona, and Los Blancos were among those hoping for it to succeed.
Nacho’s Blunder
However, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, a recent appeal has made matters worse. Real Madrid player Nacho Fernandez was expelled during the game against Girona on Matchday 8. Courtesy of a rather foul-looking tackle on Portu, the 33-year-old Spaniard was shown red after a VAR intervention.
With this 3-match suspension, Nacho was originally set to miss out on El Clasico. However, Real Madrid has since appealed this decision and after consideration, the RFEF has accepted it and reduced the suspension to only two games.
Double Standards
On its own, this is simply a concern for Real Madrid. However, comparing it to a similar suspension and appeal situation for Barcelona truly makes it bizarre. Last season, Barcelona ace Robert Lewandowski was handed a suspension in November of last year worth three games.
This suspension came as a consequence of Lewandowski apparently ‘disrespecting’ the referee, Gil Manzano. However, the Polish ace even later clarified it was a gesture towards Xavi Hernandez in regards to something they talked about. Ultimately, Barcelona did end up appealing the decision but were unsuccessful.
Barcelona in dismay
Understandably, this decision to decrease Nacho’s suspension is rubbing Barça the wrong way. While a moment where a player simply touched his nose got to a three-match ban without a successful appeal, a dangerous tackle by a Madrid player sees the appeal accepted and the suspension decreased.
Various reports are now covering this show of ‘double standards’ when it comes to the El Clasico rivals. While Barcelona is under the spotlight of the media for the alleged act of bribery, Real Madrid continues to have their way in broad daylight.
