Real Madrid Controversy Ahead of Copa del Rey Final
In the lead-up to the Copa del Rey Final, Real Madrid has decided to cancel their open training session, press conference, and club dinner as a reaction to ongoing controversies surrounding the officiating. The team’s discontent stems from the retention of referees Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea and Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes for the Saturday match in Sevilla. Real Madrid argues that statements made by Gonzalez Fuertes warrant his disqualification from officiating the final.
Real Madrid’s Official Position
Real Madrid has formally requested a change of referees, a request that was ultimately denied by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). During a press conference, Gonzalez Fuertes expressed his frustrations regarding the backlash he has faced, particularly noting criticisms from Real Madrid’s own network, Real Madrid TV. His remarks included:
“We’re seeing anonymous people on social media insulting and threatening without any control. Official club social media managers are continually attacking our community… It’s good and healthy for everyone to return to a healthier style of football.”
This statement has only intensified Real Madrid’s concerns about potential bias, leading them to issue a public statement reinforcing their demand for a change of match official. Their response has focused on the negative implications of public criticisms of referees on the integrity of football officiating.
Reactions from Real Madrid
In an official statement, Real Madrid asserted:
“Real Madrid CF considers the public statements made today by the referees… to be unacceptable… demonstrate the clear and manifest animosity… toward Real Madrid.”
The statement also emphasized the importance of fairness and impartiality in officiating, especially before a high-stakes event that attracts global attention.
Background of Officiating Issues
This season, Real Madrid has raised numerous concerns regarding officiating quality. In February, they expressed dissatisfaction after a match against Espanyol, where a crucial foul on Kylian Mbappe went unpunished more severely, contributing to a 1-0 loss that hampered their La Liga title chase. The club has frequently highlighted perceived injustices in refereeing decisions throughout the season, including notable instances such as Jude Bellingham’s red card for dissent.
Next Steps for Real Madrid
Despite their vocal discontent, it remains uncertain what further actions Real Madrid will take concerning their officiating grievances ahead of the Copa del Rey Final. Currently, the RFEF stands firm in its decision not to change the referees, leaving Los Blancos in a situation where any further protest could impact their preparation for the crucial match.
As the final approaches, all eyes will be on the officiating and the reactions of both teams, particularly Real Madrid’s ongoing grievances regarding the perceived inconsistencies in officiating throughout the season.