'Because of me' - Mexico legend Rafael Márquez says his presence prompted many fans to switch allegiance 'from Real Madrid to Barcelona'

Rafael Márquez, former Barcelona player and current assistant to Javier Aguirre with the Mexican national team, took part in the Legends Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid - a match that featured iconic names such as Figo, Marcelo, Iker Casillas, Andrés Iniesta, Carles Puyol, and Rivaldo.

The "Kaiser," who played for the Culés from 2003 to 2010 after a successful stint with AS Monaco in Ligue 1, shared that his move to Barcelona sparked a shift among fans.

"Because of me, a lot of people switched from Madrid to Barcelona - but that’s just how it is, and I’m grateful for all the love they showed me and my teammates," said Márquez.

Real Madrid and FC Barcelona have the largest global fan bases outside their home country, with 15.6% and 10.4% of international support respectively, placing them ahead of Manchester United (9.8%). That is is according to a report by the Chiliz Group, which surveyed fans across eight countries in Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

Rafael Márquez won 12 titles with Barcelona before moving to MLS in 2010, when he signed with the New York Red Bulls. Reflecting on the fierce rivalry between Spain’s two most popular clubs, he said, "More than anything, it’s about enjoying this match. Games against Real Madrid are always different. It’s a pleasure to be here with my people, in my country, and to say that I once shared the field with my teammates on this pitch."

Márquez played 242 matches for Barcelona between 2003 and 2010. During his time with the club, the Mexican center-back scored 13 goals and provided 13 assists.

With the Culés, he won four LaLiga titles, two Champions Leagues, one Club World Cup, two Spanish Super Cups, one UEFA Super Cup, and one Copa del Rey. He is remembered for being part of the historic sextuple-winning Barcelona side under Pep Guardiola during the 2009–10 season.

El Tri will face Switzerland on June 7 at the University of Utah's stadium, and then take on Turkey on June 10 at Kenan Stadium in North Carolina. Both matches will serve as preparation for the Gold Cup.