Barcelona’s 5-0 victory over Elche has become one of the most discussed moments of the La Liga season’s opening weekend, but an off-pitch incident has elicited a strong reaction from the club.
Prior to the match, a Barcelona fan was arrested amidst a controversy involving an Estelada flag.
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As per the club’s report, security officials confiscated the flag before the supporter was allegedly struck multiple times and subsequently detained.
FC Barcelona has formally condemned what they term the “disproportionate use of force against the club’s members and supporters.”
The club has expressed its support for the young supporter and his family while also seeking clarity over the incident that has sparked considerable debate.
Barcelona Denounces ‘Disproportionate Arrest’
The arrest of the Barcelona supporter occurred before the match against Elche, and the circumstances of the situation are currently being scrutinized.
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In their statement, Barça described the arrest as “disproportionate” and “inconsistent,” indicating their dissatisfaction with the handling of the matter.
The club has also extended its support to the arrested supporter and his family if they need assistance.
“FC Barcelona has made itself available to the detained fan and his family to offer them any support they may require,” stated the official communication.
Furthermore, the Blaugrana conveyed that they are awaiting information from involved parties before deciding on any further actions.
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Barcelona Voices Concerns Over Estelada Flag Confiscations
In addition, Barcelona addressed another significant issue related to the confiscation of Estelada flags from Barça supporters.
The club expressed disappointment regarding the repeated confiscation of Estelada flags by police and emphasized their stance that the flag is a legal symbol.
“FC Barcelona also regrets that, once again, police officers confiscated Estelada flags from Barça fans. The Estelada is a legally endorsed symbol, and its display constitutes a legitimate exercise of freedom of expression. It should not be seen as an incitement to hatred or violence,” the statement read.
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“FC Barcelona is awaiting the relevant explanations regarding these events and reserves the right to take any necessary actions to protect the integrity, rights, and freedom of expression of its members and supporters at the Spotify Camp Nou and at the stadiums of rival teams,” the statement concluded.