The fallout from the Madrid Derby extended beyond Atlético Madrid’s 2–1 triumph over Real Madrid, as refereeing decisions ignited a new chapter in the ongoing conflict between the club and La Liga president Javier Tebas.
Following the match, José Mourinho appeared holding printouts and images of controversial incidents, launching a stern critique against referee appointments and VAR while maintaining that Atlético should have been reduced to nine men before Real Madrid suffered Dean Huijsen’s dismissal.
Responding to Real Madrid’s campaign, Tebas stated: “I understand the objections, but I do not understand the approach at all. Real Madrid did not lose the match because of these incidents.”
He added: “Dean Huijsen’s red card was clear. As for Cuti Romero’s challenge on Jude Bellingham, it did not warrant a red card because he played the ball first.”
The La Liga president continued: “Kang-in Lee’s challenge could be interpreted as a red card, and if the referee had shown it, there would be no issue. However, the action occurred very rapidly, so I understand how it passed without a sending-off.”
Tebas remained convinced that continuous claims of refereeing bias against Real Madrid serve as a mechanism to avoid addressing tactical and structural issues, arguing that resorting to conspiracy narratives proves easier than explaining pitch performances—particularly with the club falling six points behind Barcelona.
Extending his criticism to Real Madrid TV, Tebas remarked: “We have previously filed a complaint regarding the behavior of Real Madrid TV, and what occurred reinforces the necessity of continuing to protect competitive ethics. It is an unfair and harsh method to exert pressure on the referee.”
The statements represent the latest chapter in an ongoing battle between both parties, following repeated accusations from Real Madrid officials regarding the Negreira case and general refereeing standards, while Tebas maintains that the club has constructed a permanent narrative founded on imagined adversaries.
