Soccer in Spain goes beyond a simple sport. It is a passion that transcends the field, especially with the giants of La Liga: FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.
When observing how the media cover their performances, there is an evident disparity. This has caused criticism about a double standard. This concept is clear in the front pages of newspapers like Marca and Diario AS. Their approaches and headlines vary depending on the team in question.
Barça's 'suicide' in Monaco and the mild criticism of Madrid
Recently, Marca headlined: "FCB commits suicide in Monaco", after Barcelona's defeat. This term suggests a total collapse after a single defeat early in the season. "Suicide" has extreme connotations, insinuating that the team is in ruins.
However, Barça has started the season strongly, scoring 21 goals in five matches. The media's overreaction creates a perception of crisis, despite their overall good performance.
In contrast, after Vedat Muriqi's performance for Mallorca against Real Madrid, Marca published: "Muriqi sets limits to Madrid." This flatters the white team, suggesting that only exceptional players can stop them. This narrative reinforces the idea that Real Madrid is almost unbeatable and that any adverse result is a rarity.
Ancelotti and the "false crisis" of Real Madrid
The same newspaper covered Real Madrid's situation in Las Palmas with a curious approach. It headlined: "Ancelotti has a problem," referring to the team being only four points behind the leader.
However, this small difference is not considered serious. It is presented as a minor situation that will be solved over time. This narrative contrasts with Barça's "crisis," even though the context is similar for both.
This last headline doesn't speak of a crisis. In fact, AS states that "Madrid was better in numbers" and highlights Vinicius as "a sure thing in penalties." Faced with the four-point difference, it is reminded: "It's the start of 2019-20, which we won," suggesting there is no reason to be alarmed.
An evident difference
It is difficult to ignore the difference in media treatment toward the two teams. FC Barcelona is demanded constant perfection, and any failure is presented as a crisis.
In contrast, Real Madrid receives more lenient coverage, where stumbles are seen as anomalies. In summary, the double standard not only exists but is deeply rooted in how the story of these clubs is narrated in the Spanish sports press.