🔥 Mourinho Criticizes Madrid Derby Referee
Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid’s manager, strongly criticized the referee following his team’s Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid, objecting to several decisions that he believed had an impact on the match.
Mourinho argued that the referee failed to issue two red cards to Atletico Madrid players, insisting that the decisions could have significantly changed the course of the game.
🟥 “We Should Have Played 11 Against 9”
During the post-match press conference, Mourinho brought two printed photographs showing the incidents he believed deserved red cards and presented them to the media.
The Portuguese coach said the two images told the story of the match from his perspective, before insisting that both incidents should have resulted in dismissals.
He argued that, based on those decisions, Real Madrid should have been playing with 11 players against nine from Atletico Madrid.
🗣️ Mourinho Questions Referee Appointment
Mourinho’s criticism extended beyond the decisions made during the match, as he also questioned the appointment of the referee for the Madrid derby.
He described the early announcement of the referee’s name as unusual, noting that, in his understanding, refereeing appointments are normally announced closer to match day.
⚖️ “He Does Not Have the Necessary Experience”
Mourinho continued his criticism by arguing that the referee did not have enough experience to handle a match of the magnitude of the Madrid derby.
He pointed out that the official had not previously refereed international matches before making a direct criticism of the referee’s level and suitability for such a fixture.
👏 Praise for Real Madrid Players
Despite his frustration with the officiating, Mourinho praised the Real Madrid players for their effort and commitment throughout the match.
He said the players had given everything they had, while highlighting the quality and character they displayed, particularly during the first half.
According to Mourinho, the opening 45 minutes featured a strong combination of quality and personality from his side.
🇪🇸 Mourinho Reflects on His Previous La Liga Experience
The Portuguese manager also reflected on his previous experience in La Liga, explaining that before returning to the competition, he had expected certain things to be different compared with his earlier spell.
Mourinho said he had been mistaken in that expectation, suggesting that some aspects of the Spanish league had not changed as much as he anticipated.
📢 Refereeing Remains the Main Talking Point
Mourinho ended his comments by once again criticizing the referee, questioning his experience and level after the Madrid derby.
The match therefore generated headlines beyond the result itself, with refereeing decisions and the disputed red-card incidents dominating much of Mourinho’s post-match press conference.
