The statement from Zarzuela, the official residence of the Spanish royal family, clarifies that any decision regarding former King Juan Carlos's return to Spain is entirely up to him. This response came in light of a recent social media post by Alberto Núñez Feijóo, a prominent political figure, who expressed his desire for Juan Carlos to come back, especially following the release of documents related to a significant historical event in Spain—the attempted coup d'état on February 23, 1981. Feijóo's comments emphasized the importance of reconciliation and recognizing the former king's role in upholding democracy during a critical time in Spanish history.

Despite the political implications of Feijóo’s proposal, sources close to the royal palace suggest that the former king's rehabilitation in the eyes of the public and his potential return may face significant obstacles. The recent political landscape around Juan Carlos I has been fraught with controversy due to his past actions and decisions while on the throne, which have raised questions about his legacy. Although there may be a public yearning for his return as a symbol of unity, it is evident that discrepancies remain regarding his acceptance back into the nation he once ruled.

Furthermore, the timing of this discussion, following the declassification of the 23-F documents, adds layers to the debate surrounding Juan Carlos I's legacy. While the documents may shed light on his actions during a critical juncture in history and potentially aid in his public image rehabilitation, there is skepticism about the genuine support for his return from both the public and political leaders. The future of the former king and his standing in Spain remains uncertain, emphasizing the complex interplay of history, politics, and public sentiment in shaping public figures' destinies in contemporary Spain.