Espanyol issued a statement on Monday condemning Barcelona’s Mapi Leon for making a gesture deemed “unacceptable” that violated the privacy of Daniela Caracas during a Liga F match on Sunday.

In the 15th minute of Barcelona’s 2-0 victory, Leon appeared to inappropriately touch Caracas, as shown in widely circulated video footage. No penalties were imposed on the Barcelona defender during the match, but Espanyol criticized her the following day and called for action from governing bodies of the sport.

“RCD Espanyol de Barcelona wishes to express our complete discontent with, and condemnation of, the events that took place last Sunday.”
(Translation: RCD Espanyol de Barcelona wishes to express our complete discontent with, and condemnation of, the events that took place last Sunday.)

Espanyol stated that Caracas has faced abuse online due to the incident, offering legal support to the player if desired.

“There was a regrettable response on social media where our player was the target of insults from hundreds of profiles.”
(Translation: There was a regrettable response on social media where our player was the target of insults from hundreds of profiles.)

Leon responded later, denying any inappropriate contact and asserting that she did not mean to offend. She hinted at potential legal action if deemed necessary and condemned the abuse faced by Caracas.

The FUTPRO union, which represents women soccer players in Spain, reached out to all parties involved to clarify the matter.

“We have contacted all involved parties—players, agents, and clubs—to clarify the facts.”
(Translation: We have contacted all involved parties—players, agents, and clubs—to clarify the facts.)

Neither Liga F nor the Royal Spanish Football Federation has commented on the situation.