In recent times, Espanyol-Barça matches are always marked by controversy. The latest one, in which FC Barcelona won LaLiga again in Cornellà, was no exception. Not only on the field, where a fan invaded the field during the match and, in the middle of the celebration, the sprinklers were activated, but also outside. At one point, a section of the stands called for the classic to be postponed due to a mass hit-and-run that occurred near the stadium.
At times, different options were considered regarding what had happened. From it being a Barça ultra to a terrorist attack. Despite this, official sources point to a woman who got nervous because of all the people around and decided to move forward. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported, and the only injuries are minor.
Juanma Castaño lashes out against Espanyol-Barça
For these reasons, along with the attempted mass assault on FC Barcelona players two years ago, Juanma Castaño has lashed out. The host of 'El Partidazo' on COPE has been blunt regarding the Espanyol-Barça derbies, labeling it as a "dangerous and disgusting" duel.
"Espanyol-Barça has become a really dangerous and disgusting match," Juanma Castaño began by saying. In this regard, he added: "Going to soccer in these circumstances where you have to avoid streets, avoid clothing, be aware of who is watching you or if you celebrate a goal... I don't know if it's worth going to soccer for this, to be scared at many moments."
Juanma Castaño points out the only "beautiful" classic in Spain
Following these comments, the debate was activated on COPE. Journalist Luis García stated: "The great rivalries were the most beautiful thing about soccer, which is when the matches are most exciting. And now, if I had children, I wouldn't take them to high-rivalry matches."
To which David Sánchez, a Barcelona supporter, added: "The only high-rivalry match that is beautiful to watch and where they behave is the Basque one. It's the only one."
Finally, Juanma Castaño was clear: "The rest leave much to be desired."