Team captain Álvaro Morata introduced the players individually on Monday evening on a huge stage in front of thousands of fans at the famous Cibeles square. When it was right-back Dani Carvajal’s turn, Morata tried to make fun of the German Jamal Musiala – and England also came under fire. Morata called Carvajal, who had fouled Musiala, a “pit bull”, asked snippily: “Where is Musiala? Where is he?” and added: “The best right-back in the world, Dani Carvajal!”.
After that, midfielder Rodri repeatedly used the well-known battle cry of Spanish fans, which they use to annoy English opponents: “Gibraltar is Spanish,” the 28-year-old sang out of tune on the open stage, and many of his teammates and fans joined in. A more than explosive statement, following all, the peninsula on the south coast of Spain has been British territory since the 18th century. This is still a thorn in the side of nationalist circles in Spain. The inhabitants of the peninsula have spoken out repeatedly and the majority once morest a Spanish takeover.
Morata dismissed Rodri’s objection that he was under contract with Manchester City with the following euphoric remark: “I don’t care at all.” Does UEFA care either? For example, Merih Demiral’s controversial wolf salute resulted in a suspension. This comment from the best player of the last finals might also have repercussions.
