Barcelona defender Mapi León has denied allegations of inappropriate conduct toward an opponent during a Spanish women’s league match against Espanyol, calling the situation a misinterpretation of an on-field moment.
The incident, which occurred during Barcelona’s 2-0 victory on Sunday, was labeled “unacceptable” by Espanyol, prompting a strong response from León, who insists she never engaged in any inappropriate action.
León’s Response: “It Was Just a Simple Game Moment”
In a statement released by FC Barcelona, León firmly denied touching Espanyol defender Daniela Caracas inappropriately, clarifying:
🗣️ “I touched her leg. There was no touching of an intimate area, much less any intention to do so. I insist, it’s a simple moment of the game that doesn’t deserve the repercussion or importance that this is acquiring.”
Video footage shows León and Caracas jockeying for position away from the ball, with León briefly touching Caracas’ shorts with her right hand while appearing to say something to her. The two players continued pushing each other afterward.
León stated that she asked Caracas, “What’s wrong with you?”, but denied any inappropriate intent.
🗣️ “In no circumstance would it occur to me to touch the private parts of any of my colleagues. It goes against my principles, and I would never do it.”
Espanyol Condemns the Alleged Gesture, Offers Legal Support to Caracas
Espanyol released an official statement condemning León’s alleged actions, asserting that the Barcelona defender “violated the privacy” of Caracas.
🗣️ “Espanyol defends the player and condemns any act that threatens the integrity of women players on the field. We firmly believe that respect and sportsmanship are fundamental values of soccer and hope that these situations are treated with the seriousness they deserve.”
The club also offered legal support to Caracas should she wish to pursue formal action, though the player opted not to immediately respond to avoid potential disciplinary consequences.
Additionally, Espanyol denounced online harassment directed at Caracas, criticizing the “lamentable reaction” of individuals who insulted her on social media.
León Condemns Online Harassment, Considers Legal Action
León also spoke out against the social media abuse Caracas has faced since the incident, emphasizing that she had no part in it:
🗣️ “I condemn the harassment that Daniela is apparently suffering on social media, which has nothing to do with me, and I offer her my most sincere support.”
The Spain international expressed frustration over the escalation of the situation, stating that the allegations damage her image and principles.
🗣️ “I am very upset and disappointed, and I reserve the right to take legal action against those trying to harm me and defame me based on unfounded evidence.”
What’s Next?
While Barcelona secured a 2-0 derby win, the controversy surrounding León’s actions continues to spark debate. Whether Espanyol or Caracas will take further legal steps remains unclear, but León has hinted at pursuing legal recourse herself to defend her reputation.
As the Spanish women’s league and its governing bodies monitor the situation, this incident highlights ongoing discussions about player conduct, boundaries, and the role of social media in shaping narratives in modern football.
