That Barça crosses borders is something we already knew. That it arouses passions, too. And that there are Culers on every continent is nothing new either. But the intensity with which Afsal, a member of the Barça supporters’ club Penya Kozhikode (Kerala), lives his Barça devotion is far from ordinary.

“My passion for Barça began many years ago, although it feels like yesterday. During the golden era when Lionel Messi was redefining football,” he explains. “There was something about Barça’s way of playing, the rhythm of the tiki-taka, the unity, the philosophy of humility and excellence, that captivated me instantly. It wasn’t just football; it was art, passion, and purpose all at once.”

One key moment sealed his devotion forever: “That legendary night when Messi scored in El Clásico and lifted his shirt before the Bernabéu crowd. That image symbolised Barça’s pride, resilience and indestructible spirit. It was then that I knew this was my club.”

Over the years, that feeling has not only stayed alive but grown stronger. So much so that Afsal decided to include it in his wedding with Mirsha. “During the ceremony, I recreated that iconic Messi gesture in my own way: I lifted a Barça shirt and gave it to my wife, inviting her not only into my life but into my world, where Barça is family. It was my way of saying, ‘Welcome to my life and to my club.’ It was a very special moment, full of meaning.”

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Afsal admits that being a Barça fan is a real rollercoaster of emotions: “I’ve celebrated unforgettable triumphs, from the treble-winning seasons to magical nights when the Spotify Camp Nou roared with energy. But I’ve also endured disappointments, rebuilds and difficult campaigns. Despite everything, one thing has remained constant: my belief in the club, my love for the badge, and my faith that we’ll rise again, and stronger than ever.”

For him, as for all Barça fans, the club is much more than just a club: “It’s a philosophy, a feeling and a way of life. It teaches us to dream big, to fight with dignity, and to stay loyal even in hard times. My support for Barça isn’t temporary. It’s eternal.”

Afsal concludes with a phrase that sums up his Barça spirit: “To infinity and beyond: Visca el Barça, Visca Catalunya!”

 

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