Tensions between Barcelona and Real Madrid have intensified in recent days, following sharp exchanges that have drawn attention beyond the usual sport rivalry. The controversy centers on comments made by a Barcelona spokesperson that many observers viewed as disparaging toward Vinícius Júnior, the Real Madrid forward. The remarks, which surfaced during coverage of important European fixtures, have echoes of longer-standing frictions between the clubs that go back years.
According to reports circulating in Madrid and echoed by multiple outlets, Florentino Pérez will not attend the Clásico scheduled for Montjuïc this weekend. Instead, Eduardo Fernández de Blas, who serves as first vice-president after the passing of Fernando Fernández-Tapias, is expected to represent Real Madrid in Montjuïc’s arena. The shift marks a notable moment in the leadership’s public posture amid the ongoing storm surrounding the clubs’ relationship.
Earlier plans had Pérez aiming to visit the stadium used by Barcelona for home matches this season while Camp Nou has undergone renovations. Those plans were overshadowed by recent events that have strained both sporting and political ties between Barcelona and Real Madrid, including contentious comments tied to the so-called Negreira case. Public figures from both sides have weighed in, with Barcelona officials addressing the rhetoric around Madrid as a symbolic or sociopolitical symbol within certain narratives.
The latest spark came from comments attributed to Mikel Camps, a Barcelona spokesperson, during a match featuring Real Madrid against a fellow European contender. Reports stated that Vinícius Júnior was described in unflattering terms, including a characterization as a clown. The social media post in question also referenced criticisms of Vinícius Júnior’s playing style, with terms describing his on-field actions as unnecessary or excessive. These statements were later deleted by Camps amid widespread discussion.
Barcelona’s vice-president, Rafa Yuste, addressed the matter in statements broadcast on a major sports channel, acknowledging the tweet and clarifying the club’s position. He suggested that even if the post reflected a mistake, it did not warrant repeating and expressed a preference for restraint in public commentary. The tone and content of the exchange drew immediate reactions from fans and pundits alike, underscoring the volatility of the rivalry as it enters a new phase.
The social media discourse surrounding Camps’s post dominated coverage, with several outlets publishing screenshots and commentary before the posts were removed. In the aftermath of the incident, Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes was asked for his reaction to the comments. The Brazilian striker described the remarks as regrettable and stressed the importance of maintaining respect in public exchanges between clubs, players, and supporters.
As the week progressed, observers noted how the narrative around the Clásico extended beyond the competition on the field. Analysts highlighted the role of media framing, club leadership statements, and fan responses in shaping perceptions of fairness, rivalries, and sportsmanship. The situation also reflects wider debates about speech, identity, and accountability in football’s high-profile matchups.
Source: Goal