“In reality, Real Madrid has no fans” - Atletico Madrid icon Saul Niguez makes emphatic claim about rivals

Former Atletico Madrid star Saul Niguez has boldly claimed that Real Madrid do not have fans. He said that the Santiago Bernabéu is silent compared to other stadiums, adding that Flamengo has one of the best fan bases in the world.

Speaking to AS, Niguez said that Real Madrid are one of the biggest clubs in the world, but their local fans are nothing compared to those that follow Flamengo. He believes that they are known worldwide because of the trophies and said (via GOAL):

"It is more than Madrid. In reality, Madrid has no fans. Madrid is famous, yes, for what it has won, and it is known all over the world and that is why it has followers. But you go to the stadium and you feel nothing."

Comparing Los Blancos local fanbase to that of Flamengo, he added:

"In contrast, you go to the Maracana, an emblematic stadium, and it is always full. Away from home, the ground is full of Flamengo fans. We recently played against Sport Recife and they sent us to another stadium because otherwise our fans wouldn't fit. And that's speaking of a flight of three and a half hours duration. You go to Lima, and our fans fill it 100%. And then you see that Palmeiras doesn't fill it... You say: 'This is a big fanbase'."

Saul Niguez played 31 matches against Real Madrid, losing 13 times, winning nine, and drawing as many times. He scored three times against Los Blancos and provided as many assists.

Real Madrid president takes another dig at Barcelona

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has once again spoken about the Negreira case, calling for a proper investigation. He refused to give up on their fight for justice and said (via Barca Blaugranes)

“Real Madrid’s biggest concern is the refereeing situation. As you well know, the extremely serious situation that occurred with the ‘Negreira case’ for almost two decades deserves justice. It is completely incomprehensible that the institutions have left Madrid alone in this fight." “How is it possible that the president of the referees asks us to forget it? How can we forget the biggest scandal in the history of football? How can the RFEF and LaLiga behave this way? They have a duty to ensure integrity."

Los Blancos are currently four points behind Barcelona in the title chase in LaLiga after 17 matches this season.

Edited by Sripad