Spanish club Rayo Vallecano has explained why it did not publicly honour its midfielder, Pathé Ciss, following Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph.
The club faced criticism from some supporters after failing to recognise Ciss, who played a key role in Senegal’s title-winning campaign that ended with victory over Morocco in last Sunday’s final.
Reports in the Spanish media indicated that the Senegalese midfielder shared a post on X from a fan questioning the club’s decision.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Rayo Vallecano said the absence of a tribute was due to national mourning in Spain after two fatal train accidents last week.
The club noted that it would have been inappropriate to hold any form of celebration during such a period.
According to Rayo, players wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence before their 3–1 home defeat to Osasuna in La Liga as a mark of respect for the victims.
The club added that Ciss would receive “well-deserved recognition” before Rayo’s home league fixture against Oviedo on February 7.
A minute of silence was observed before kick-off at all Spanish league matches played over the weekend.
Meanwhile, Villarreal honoured Senegal international Pape Gueye on Saturday, with the midfielder presenting his Africa Cup of Nations winner’s medal and trophy to the fans.