Barcelona Mural of Messi and Lamine Yamal Vandalized Ahead of World Cup Final

A mural celebrating the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, depicting Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, was defaced in Barcelona just hours after its creation. The artwork, painted by artist Axe Colours in the Jardins de Manuel Torrente in the Gracia neighborhood, showed the two players smiling and looking at each other.

However, the image was almost entirely covered by spray paint with the message: "A Gràcia, només Club Esportiu Europa. Contra el Futbol Modern." This translates to "In Gracia, only Club Deportivo Europa. Against Modern Football."

The slogan is typically used by supporters of Club Esportiu Europa, the most popular team in the Gracia district. The club currently plays in the third tier of Spanish football, the Primera Federación. Its fans use this motto to assert the club's identity in contrast to elite teams and the increasingly professionalized nature of the sport.