Espanyol have accused Barcelona defender Mapi Leon of "violating the privacy" of their player Daniela Caracas during a Liga F match on Sunday.
The incident, which occurred in the 15th minute of the derby, involved Leon and Caracas colliding as Espanyol defended a set-piece, with Leon appearing to touch Caracas around the groin area.
Espanyol issued a statement expressing their "total discontent and condemnation" of the action, which has since gone viral on social media.
The club also raised concerns about Caracas being subjected to online abuse following the incident.
Leon later denied any wrongdoing, stating, “At no time did I, nor was it my intention, infringe upon the intimacy of my fellow professional Daniela Caracas.”
She explained that the interaction was part of the game, adding, “There is no contact with her private parts, and certainly no intention.” Leon also condemned the social media harassment directed at Caracas and extended her support to the player.
Espanyol, however, maintained that the act was “unacceptable” and should not be overlooked.
They noted that while Caracas did not react in the moment to avoid disciplinary consequences, she later acknowledged the seriousness of the incident.
The controversy comes as Barcelona continue to lead Liga F with a five-point advantage, having secured a 2-0 victory over Espanyol, who currently sit 13th in the 16-team league.
Both Liga F and Barcelona have yet to comment on the situation.
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