RCD Espanyol fans applaud Joan García's sincere gesture at Cornellà-El Prat

Joan García was the main protagonist of the Catalan classic that was played on Saturday in Cornellà-El Prat. The buildup was marked by his return to what used to be his home, with an atmosphere full of tension from the very first minute. At RCD Espanyol, Joan grew until he became the elite goalkeeper that he is today, but last summer he decided to switch teams in Barcelona.

His transfer to FC Barcelona was considered by many Perico fans as high treason, and they made that clear to him on his return. Joan García was received with whistles, insults, and all kinds of jeers, showing the wound that his departure to the eternal rival has left.

The interesting thing is that, in the middle of the noise, Joan García did not hide or seek refuge in theatrical gestures. Far from appearing affected, he put in an impressive performance with saves of great merit. He dominated the area at all times, made great saves, and kept Barça afloat in the decisive stretches: his performance was so outstanding that he ended up receiving the MVP award of the match.

However, one of the aspects of his performance that has gone more unnoticed came in the final minutes. The fact is that Joan García had a gesture that, in such a heated stadium, did not go unnoticed.

The gesture of Joan García that RCD Espanyol fans applaud

Yes, because despite the hostile reception that he had, Joan García did not celebrate Barça's goals. On both goals he lowered his head and went back to his goal without the slightest hint of joy. It was a simple gesture, almost intimate, but full of meaning, because in soccer symbols carry weight, and even more so when there are open wounds.

That behavior doesn't erase the anger of many Pericos, nor does it intend to. For a part of RCD Espanyol's fanbase, the move to Barça will continue to be a red line that is difficult to cross. However, Joan's gesture was interpreted by some sectors as a way of acknowledging his past, of not trampling on the place where he was formed, and that was well received.

In addition, this kind of detail usually has a long-term effect. It will not change the opinion of those who are determined to whistle him forever, but it does open a crack for those who value professionalism and mutual respect above resentment. At RCD Espanyol, where pride carries weight and memory is not erased, that nuance may be the beginning of a less hostile relationship, even if it never becomes comfortable again.