Espanyol Taunts Vinicius, Enraging Courtois

Espanyol took a jab at Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior immediately following their 2-1 home defeat last night.

The club posted the following status on social media platform X: “After how many dives does a second yellow card get issued? Asking for a friend.” While not explicitly naming anyone, it's highly probable this was aimed at Vinicius, who endured eight fouls during the match. The “Parakeets’” post drew a flurry of disgruntled comments from Real Madrid fans, who highlighted how home midfielder Alex Calatrava was spared a second yellow card. Thibaut Courtois echoed this sentiment, not hiding his irritation at Espanyol's taunt.

“I’d like to see all the tweets teams write against us also published when they play against other opponents. Because then other things happen, and there isn't a single tweet. Also, if we're talking about that rule, Calatrava should have been sent off earlier. The hit from behind, the yellow card against Vini, the first foul in the second half against Alvaro Carreras, for which he would have received a 100% yellow card if he didn't already have one. First, you need to look in the mirror and see what's happening with your team and your players,” commented the Real Madrid goalkeeper after the game.