SPAIN’S newest World Cup hero has immediately stoked controversy by being seen wearing a ‘Make Spain Great Again’ cap less than 24 hours after scoring the winning goal in the final.
Ferran Torres, 26, was pictured with the slogan that appears to pay homage to the infamous Trump movement ‘Make America Great Again’, also known as MAGA, during the homecoming parade in Madrid.
It was the US President himself who congratulated Spain’s players after their victory on the pitch in New Jersey, leading to speculation that the player was making a respectful nod to the Republican government.
READ MORE: Thousands swarm Madrid and Barcelona to celebrate Spain’s World Cup win as national team flies home for victory parade
Others, meanwhile, have suggested the opposite: that the cap was mildly mocking Trump’s signature phrase in light of Spain’s spectacular victory.
Torres, who had a two-year stint in England playing for Manchester City, now plays for Barcelona.
But it hasn’t always been plain sailing for the Valencian. Spanish football fans had been criticising him mercilessly on social media throughout the tournament – up until his World Cup-winning goal.
Another player that caught the attention in the aftermath of the victory over Argentina was Arsenal’s Mikel Merino, who imitated Trump’s infamous dance during the trophy-lifting ceremony.
Trump had to be ushered to the side after handing the World Cup to Spain’s captain, Manchester City player Rodri – and even then he did not leave the stage.
Spain’s football association, RFEF, later edited Trump out of their official photo.
It was not the first bit of controversy Trump was involved in during the tournament.
At the round of 16 stage he called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask him to rescind a red card for one of USA players, Folarin Balogun.
It was later suspended for one year, allowing the striker to play against Belgium, where Trump’s team lost 4-1.
Click here to read more Sport News from The Olive Press.
