Tebas Rejects Real Madrid Referee Conspiracy Claims After Derby Defeat

Complaints After Derby Defeat

Real Madrid are facing a tough start to the season after losing 2-1 to Atletico Madrid in the derby. The defeat, which saw Madrid go down to 10 men, left them six points behind Barcelona. Atletico secured the win thanks to goals from Grimaldo and Jonathan David.

After the match, coach Jose Mourinho was furious with the officiating. He claimed Madrid were denied two clear red cards and brought printed photos of the incidents to his press conference. Mourinho said referee Miguel Ortiz Arias could not cope with the pressure of the big game because of his lack of experience. He added that if they are allowed to compete on an even playing field, there is still a long way to go.

Tebas Rejects Conspiracy Theories

LaLiga president Javier Tebas did not hold back in his response to the complaints. Writing on social media, Tebas dismissed any talk of a plot against Real Madrid. He called the claims a smokescreen to hide other shortcomings that are plain to see in the opening matches of the season.

Tebas said that maintaining that referees are conspiring against Real Madrid is to live in another galaxy. He argued that it is much easier for the club to point to a conspiracy than to explain what is actually happening on the pitch. He added that a refereeing error does not prove a conspiracy.

Spain Coach Calls for Honesty

Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente also rejected the conspiracy claims. Speaking after signing a contract extension, De la Fuente said he does not believe in any of those theories. He stated that if he believed in such manipulation, he would be better off going home.

De la Fuente explained that refereeing is very difficult and backed the use of VAR to help officials. He urged everyone to drop the conspiracy theories. He said he believes in the honesty of referees, players, coaches, and the media.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid have a lot of ground to make up. They have already lost to Real Betis and Atletico Madrid this season. Barcelona lead the table with maximum points, having scored 31 goals in their opening seven matches.