Celta fans plan painted nails show of support for Borja Iglesias | OneFootball

Balaídos is set to be colourful for RC Celta de Vigo’s next league meeting with Rayo Vallecano, as home fans plan a painted-nails show of support for Borja Iglesias after homophobic abuse at the Sánchez Pizjuán.

According to Superdeporte, the supporters’ group Carcamäns da Arousa has driven the social media call, urging both fans and players to attend with nails painted, turning a gesture associated with the striker into a stand for personal freedom.

As he left the Seville stadium, Sevilla followers shouted offensive slurs at Iglesias, including “maricón de mierda”, and told him “píntate las uñas”. That phrase has become the spark for the Balaídos initiative.

Iglesias responded with irony, suggesting such incidents supposedly never happen in football. Two days on, the plan is for a collective response inside Balaídos.

The campaign has gained traction online and has been backed by the club and other Celta supporters’ groups. Merlegos Celestes are offering themed manicures with panda motifs, the forward’s nickname.

Iglesias has already signalled his support by sharing an image with his nails painted, and several of his team-mates are expected to join the mobilisation. The aim is to make Balaídos a space that rejects homophobia and highlights diversity within football.

Source: Superdeporte