Real Madrid is brewing an ugly gesture against Barcelona that has already caused significant tension and controversy.
The May 10 showdown at Spotify Camp Nou could see the Blaugrana crowned champions beforehand if they widen the gap to 13 points through upcoming fixtures while Real Madrid stumbles—already pointless in their last two league outings post-Champions League focus.
Tradition dictates a guard of honour, the pasillo where runners-up applaud the title winners pre-kickoff, but Madrid’s decision to snub it promises fireworks.
According to El Chiringuito’s Marcos Benito, Real Madrid firmly rejects the gesture if Barcelona seals the title early.
The stance ties to the ongoing Negreira case, where Barcelona faces allegations over €7.3 million payments to former refereeing official José María Enríquez Negreira from 2001 to 2018.
Despite no proven match-fixing, Real Madrid aggressively lobbies to extend the probe, claiming institutional damage.
This poisons relations, echoing 2018 when Zidane’s Madrid skipped the pasillo, citing Barca’s prior Club World Cup snub.
The pasillo symbolizes respect: Atletico honored Barca in 2019, Real Madrid reciprocated in 2022-23.
Refusal risks backlash, branding Arbeloa’s side petty amid their domestic woes and European tilt.
Laporta stays silent, focusing on Celta Vigo amid Flick’s rotations with Bernal’s return, Bastoni swap plots, and youth chases like JJ Gabriel.
For Flick, the snub fuels motivation post-Yamal’s vow, Raphinha’s ban, and Casado’s Leverkusen saga. Madrid aims to disrupt, but it spotlights their nine-point deficit.
The Clasico transcends points: pride, protocol, and pettiness collide in Spain’s fiercest feud.
Barcelona craves victory to claim the crown emphatically; Real Madrid seeks upset salvation.
This “ugly gesture” elevates the stakes, turning tradition into tinder for football’s ultimate grudge match.
Real Madrid’s refusal ignites Clasico fire, transforming tradition into rivalry fuel as Barcelona eyes title glory.
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