(foto: Posnetek zaslona)
The celebration of the European Championship title had some political overtones that will not be well received in the United Kingdom.
Spanish footballers celebrated their European Championship title yesterday at Cibeles Square with their fans. The celebration could not avoid the political conflict that has existed for centuries between Spain and the United Kingdom regarding territorial rights to Gibraltar.
Gibraltar has been under British control since the Treaty of 1713, but Spain has long sought to reclaim the strait, which connects the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. The residents of Gibraltar are not in favor of joining Spain, and the issue became particularly politically charged during the time of the UK's exit from the European Union, with aggressive political notes being exchanged from both sides.
Spanish midfielder Rodri, who was named the best player of the European Championship, is not a player one would expect to stir up fan euphoria with politically motivated messages. However, the City star did just that.
Rodri took the microphone and started chanting 'Gibraltar is Spanish,' with his teammate Alvaro Morata then reminding him on stage that he plays in England.
'Friend, you play in England!'
Rodri's response was brief and uncompromising.
'I don't care.'