Ex-Real Madrid Player Backs Mallorca Amid Tensions

Omar Mascarell, a former Real Madrid midfielder now playing for Real Mallorca, has openly defended his teammate Pablo Maffeo following a highly charged match against Real Madrid. The game, marred by physical confrontations and escalating tensions, saw players from both sides clashing both on and off the pitch.

The tension reportedly stemmed from pre-match comments by Pablo Maffeo, who had humorously remarked that he could 'knock out Vinicius Junior in ten seconds.' While intended as a joke, these remarks were taken seriously by several Real Madrid players, leading to heightened emotions during the game. Mascarell explained, 'Maffeo made a light-hearted comment, but it seems the Real Madrid players took it to heart. They came into the match with that on their minds.'

One notable incident occurred in the first half when Maffeo was brought down in a challenge. Several Real Madrid players approached him in what appeared to be a response to his earlier comments. Mascarell addressed the situation, stating, 'As a team, we are united. Maffeo is one of us, and we will defend him no matter what. Anyone who reviews the footage will clearly see that Mallorca players did not instigate these conflicts.'

Mascarell, who spent four years in the Real Madrid academy, expressed his disappointment with the behavior during the match. 'I owe a lot to Real Madrid as a club,' he said, 'but what happened today is not the way things should be handled. I expected more professionalism on and off the pitch.'

Reflecting further, Mascarell dismissed claims that Mallorca players were solely responsible for the game's tension. 'People are quick to point fingers at Mallorca, but the truth is, we came to play football, and any heated exchanges were reactions, not provocations. Our focus was on competing, not creating drama.'

The heated exchanges reportedly continued after the match, with confrontations spilling into the tunnel and mixed zones. Despite the controversies, Mascarell highlighted the solidarity within the Mallorca squad, stating, 'We are a family. What happens on the pitch stays there, but we stand by each other through everything.'

Mascarell's comments underline his commitment to defending his team and preserving their integrity amidst the challenges of top-tier football. As Mallorca moves forward, their focus remains on achieving results and maintaining professionalism despite external pressures.