The return of Joan García, a goalkeeper trained at Espanyol and originally from Sallent, to the RCD Stadium was the focus of the controversy. According to the LaLiga document, the insults occurred despite the reinforced security measures implemented by the blue-and-white club.

The most serious incidents were recorded in the 13th minute, when a group of local fans located in Gol Cornellà (sectors 109, 110, and 111), members of the “Graderia Canito” animation stand, chanted the reported slogan in a coordinated manner. Furthermore, posters depicting rats were displayed and semi-full bottles were thrown onto the pitch.

The LaLiga statement also highlights the efforts made by RCD Espanyol to prevent such behavior. The club constantly issued warnings via the video scoreboards reminding fans of the legislation prohibiting violence, xenophobia, and racism in sports.

Additionally, the club had installed eight-meter-high containment nets behind the goals and a retractable tunnel at the dressing room access, which was deployed when the players withdrew at the end of the match, to prevent objects from being thrown.