Women's Barça continue to lead the Liga F with an undefeated record, waiting for their next match against Real Madrid. The first classic of the season will be a great match between the two best teams in Liga F.
However, one of their players, Mapi León, has been at the center of controversy. After the match against Atlético de Madrid, the Barça center-back caused a flood of reactions by making a gesture that quickly went viral on social media.
A Gesture That Caused a Stir
On matchday 9, after the 0-3 victory over Atlético de Madrid, the Barça players went to the stands to sign jerseys and take photos with the fans.
It was then that Mapi León, in a gesture that surprised many, refused to sign a Spanish national team jersey. The young man who offered it to her asked for an autograph, but the defender made a clear gesture of disapproval and asked for the jersey to be taken away.
The images of this moment quickly went viral on social media, generating divided opinions. Some supported his stance, while others criticized his attitude toward the national team. To understand his rejection, it's necessary to go back to the events that occurred a couple of years ago.
The conflict with La Roja
Mapi León's refusal to sign the jersey is not an isolated incident, but rather a reflection of a deeper conflict. After Euro 2022, 15 players, including Mapi León, decided not to attend the national team training camps under Rubiales and Vilda. The players denounced the Federation's poor management and the lack of connection with the coach, which affected their emotional well-being.
Mapi León, like other players, was firm in her decision not to return to the national team, something she has maintained to date.
"I have a way of life and values. I can't go back," she declared at the time. This position was a clear rejection of the management of the RFEF, which has failed to meet the demands of the players.
The impact on the Barça locker room
This rejection has left its mark on the Women's Barça's team. Although the team remains focused on its sporting objectives, the episode with the Spanish jersey reopens an old debate about the relationship of the players with the national team.
Mapi León, a key figure for Barça, has highlighted the tensions between the club and the Spanish Federation over its stance on the national team.