Pope Leo XIV's recent visit to Spain has stirred controversy, particularly among Barcelona fans, after he expressed support for Real Madrid during a flight to Spain. When asked about his football allegiance, he stated, 'the pope is for all teams, but Robert Prevost is for Real Madrid!' This remark was quickly celebrated by Real Madrid, who shared it on social media. The pope's visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, where he accepted a personalized Real Madrid shirt, further fueled the backlash. Barcelona supporters, who view Real Madrid as emblematic of the central Spanish state, felt that a figure of the pope's stature should remain neutral. Eduard Modroño, a Barcelona fan, suggested that the pope's preference for Real Madrid might not be coincidental, noting his all-white attire. The pope's call for harmony and unity in Catalonia seems overshadowed by the divisive nature of his football preference, highlighting the deep-rooted rivalries in Spanish football culture.