Real Madrid stars Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Ibrahima Konate have drawn sharp criticism after rolling up their pre-match shirts to obscure a solidarity message linked to Ceuta, the Spanish enclave that has emerged as a major political flashpoint over migrant arrivals from Morocco.
Both Real Madrid and Elche squads took to the pitch wearing white shirts prior to their La Liga fixture on Tuesday.
The garments featured the slogan "Todos somos caballas" ("We are all mackerels"), a reference to the local population of Ceuta. However, social media footage showed Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, and Konate rolling the shirts up to their chests, covering portions of the text before removing them as players shook hands prior to kickoff.
The gesture sparked deep division online, with critics viewing the move as a sign of disregard for the humanitarian issue, while supporters offered contrasting interpretations. Both clubs had asked players to wear the garments to demonstrate regional solidarity.
FIFA regulations explicitly ban political and personal statements on player clothing.
Under FIFA Rule 4.5, clothing worn by players must not feature any political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images. Although players displaying such messaging have frequently avoided strict sanctions in recent years, global governing bodies maintain oversight rules. FIFA clarified that any disciplinary action falls under the jurisdiction of La Liga, the Spanish Football Federation, and UEFA, though none of the organizations issued public comments.
Meanwhile, Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli faced intense backlash from Moroccan supporters after wearing the solidarity shirt ahead of a match against Villarreal.
Ezzalzouli, born in Morocco and raised in Spain, addressed the controversy on Instagram, insisting the gesture was entirely social and non-political. He stated that the action did not reflect contempt for his home country and announced that Real Betis is scheduled to play a friendly against Ceuta on October 1 to raise funds for the city.
