Mourinho Slams 'Poor' Referee After Real Madrid's Derby Defeat
The Real Madrid manager brought printouts of perceived refereeing errors to his press conference following a 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid.
Furious Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho lashed out at referee Ortiz Arias following his team's 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Madrid derby. Mourinho arrived at the post-match press conference with printed photographs highlighting what he deemed to be major missed calls by Arias, including two clear red card incidents he believes would have significantly altered the game.
Mourinho asserted that Arias was not qualified to officiate such a high-pressure match and suggested the referee "couldn't handle the pressure." He specifically questioned the referee's experience, noting his age and lack of international standing. "A 41-year-old referee, who has never been an international, that won't be top level," Mourinho stated. He also pointed to the VAR official, Trujillo, alleging a history with Real Madrid and questioning his involvement in directing the referee.
Mourinho's frustration centered on several key moments in the match. He argued that two clear red cards were missed in the first half, which would have led to an 11 versus nine situation. Dean Huijsen was sent off for Real Madrid in the second half for a foul inside the box, leading to a penalty.
Mourinho's printouts reportedly included a tackle by Cristian Romero on Jude Bellingham that resulted in a yellow card, and a challenge by Kang-In Lee on Fede Valverde that went unpunished. Real Madrid issued an official statement echoing these sentiments, calling the refereeing "VERY TERRIBLE" and highlighting the missed red card incidents involving Romero and Lee as having a significant impact on the match's outcome.
Star player Jude Bellingham was also seen expressing his displeasure to the referee after the final whistle, reportedly shouting, "oh my god" and "two red cards!" He was particularly aggrieved by the decision regarding Romero's challenge on him.
The match saw goals from Grimaldo (penalty) and Jonathan David for Atletico Madrid, with Antonio Rudiger scoring a late consolation for Real Madrid. Mourinho concluded his press conference by sarcastically congratulating the Refereeing Appointments Committee.