Iker Casillas’ relationship with Real Madrid fans reportedly strained after he was caught gesticulating to them in the wake of Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Valencia.
The veteran goalkeeper was forced to bear the wrath of the Santiago Bernabeu faithful, who blamed him for both of Los Che’s goals and consequently sent jeers in his direction for over an hour.
According to Cadena Cope, the 33-year-old was less than impressed with the fans’ conduct and raised his hand towards those behind his goal as a sign of irritation on a couple of occasions.
Indeed, Casillas’ patience eventually ran out after the match as he turned to the unruly fans and reportedly muttered in no uncertain terms: “That’s enough, for goodness sake.”
Meanwhile, men’s tennis star Rafael Nadal jumped to his countryman’s defence, urging the unhappy contingent to remember his past contributions.
“In the first half, Valencia hit [Madrid] twice and scored two goals. Madrid hit the woodwork three times and missed a penalty,” the Madrid Masters finalist told Canal Plus.
“It was an exaggerated result in the first half. Diego Alves had a great game, but Iker Casillas can’t be blamed for Valencia’s goals.
“[Madrid’s] fans are very demanding. They give you everything [in terms of support], but they can also make life very difficult for you.
“They’ve whistled Cristiano [Ronaldo, [Zinedine] Zidane in the past and now Iker – players who have done a lot for this club.
“As a rule, I never whistle anyone, but in this case I’d only whistle if someone didn’t strive [for the Madrid cause] or pass the ball around.
“The fans are free to do what they want, but they must remember the positive moments that these players have given them.”
