"The build-up to the upcoming Catalan derby is already tense, and a fresh report from El Confidencial has added a worrying edge to proceedings. As expected, attention is fixed on Joan Garcia, whose return to Espanyol territory is expected to spark a deeply hostile atmosphere. Garcia, now wearing the colours of Barcelona, will step onto the pitch at Cornella-El Prat on January 3rd."
"The seriousness of the situation has been recognised at an institutional level. The fixture has officially been classified as "high risk" by the Standing Committee of the State Commission against Violence, Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance in Sport. Stadium security teams, local authorities and Espanyol officials are fully aware of the anger directed at Garcia. His return presents a major logistical and safety challenge, particularly given the discussions that have been circulating among supporters in recent weeks."
The Catalan derby at Cornella-El Prat on January 3rd will feature Joan Garcia’s first return to Espanyol territory since his controversial switch to Barcelona. A section of the Espanyol fanbase remains unforgiving, with graffiti in his hometown labelling him a 'traitor' and a 'rat'. The match has been classified as high risk by the state committee, and stadium security teams, local authorities and Espanyol officials are coordinating a large-scale security response. Discussions among supporters have included the idea of throwing stuffed rats, and Espanyol has been working with state security forces to prevent serious incidents.
Read at Barca Universal
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