The refereeing dispute between city rivals Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid has escalated following their recent derby, which saw Atlético secure a 2-1 victory. Atlético Madrid used their official social media channels to address what they described as referee harassment claims, directly responding to complaints from Real Madrid.
The public disagreement intensified roughly 24 hours after the match. Atlético posted a video featuring a sheet of paper emerging from a printer, displaying an image of José Mourinho holding up printed evidence from his post-match press conference. The accompanying message, in both Spanish and English, called for an end to alleged referee harassment.
Real Madrid’s Complaints
Real Madrid’s dissatisfaction stemmed from their 2-1 derby defeat. Following the match, their official channels argued that the result had been influenced by refereeing and VAR decisions. Real Madrid TV went further, employing inflammatory language to describe the situation as unacceptable.
José Mourinho, Real Madrid’s manager, dedicated almost his entire post-derby press conference to the officiating. He presented photographs of two challenges, involving players Cuti Romero and Kang-in Lee, which he believed should have resulted in dismissals. Mourinho suggested that the referee committee, not just Atlético, should be content with the appointment given how the game unfolded.
Simeone Urges Caution
Before Atlético’s social media response, their manager Diego Simeone had already addressed the growing controversy. He urged respect for differing opinions regarding officiating. Simeone also highlighted the significant responsibility high-profile coaches, including himself, Hansi Flick, Mourinho, and Jürgen Klopp, carry when making public comments. He warned that crossing certain lines with such statements ultimately harms everyone involved in the sport.
Simeone’s broader message aimed to maintain focus on Atlético’s performance in the derby, rather than allowing the officiating dispute to overshadow their victory.