Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez calls Girona forward Portu to apologise for Nacho tackle

The LaLiga match between Girona and Real Madrid, which Carlo Ancelotti’s side won 3-0, was drawing to a close when Blancos defender Nacho inexplicably went in hard on the hosts’ Portu, which resulted in a red card.

The centre-back flew into a challenge with his studs showing, with the winger forced to leave the field on a stretcher after being caught on the side of the leg. After the match, Nacho apologised both publicly and privately, although Carrusel Deportivo on Spanish radio station Cadena SER reported that Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez also felt the need to get in touch with the player to offer his own apologies.

What injuries did Portu suffer after Nacho’s tackle?

On Sunday, it was revealed that Portu’s ankle was badly swollen and he also had pain in his hip, albeit no broken bones. The Girona attacker was taken to the hospital after the match as a precaution but spent Saturday night at home as his injuries ultimately weren’t serious ones. He is due to undergo further tests this week but sent a message to reassure fans that he is, all things considered, OK: “Thank you very much for all your best wishes yesterday, both in the stadium and via messages you sent. I’m fine and eager to help the team. We have a wonderful season ahead.” The club’s medical staff will continue to monitor his ankle.

Nacho sorry but could miss El Clásico

Nacho, meanwhile, took to Instagram to apologise for his actions having already spoken to Portu in private. “I want to apologise to Portu for unintentionally hurting him in the match. Today and throughout my career, I’ve never tried to injury anyone. I hope you make a full recovery quickly”.

The Real Madrid defender has yet to learn what his punishment for the incident will be, although he could be suspended for up to three LaLiga matches. If that is the case, he would miss El Clásico away to Barcelona on 28 October.