Former Barcelona Full-Back Slams Real Madrid Amid Fresh Refereeing Controversy

Refereeing in Spanish football has always sparked debate, but in recent weeks, tensions have escalated significantly. Real Madrid’s latest public statement criticizing refereeing decisions against them has reignited the controversy, with former Barcelona player Óscar Mingueza now sharing his thoughts on the matter.

As the La Liga title race intensifies, every on-field decision carries weight. Real Madrid’s recent 2-2 draw with Osasuna saw Jude Bellingham controversially sent off and a penalty given to the home team, increasing frustration within the Madrid camp. Yet, some argue that Real Madrid has also benefited from questionable calls in key matches, such as in the Copa del Rey.

Mingueza, currently with Celta Vigo, recalled what he saw as a clear refereeing error during a Copa del Rey match against Real Madrid. Celta made a remarkable comeback from two goals down to equalize, but the game took a controversial turn shortly after.

In that match, Celta was denied a penalty when goalkeeper Andriy Lunin appeared to foul Williot Swedberg in the penalty area. Instead of awarding the penalty, the referee let play continue, and within a minute, Kylian Mbappé scored, putting Real Madrid back in the lead.

Mingueza voiced his frustration in an interview with Cadena Ser, pointing out Real Madrid’s recent statements about refereeing. He suggested that Celta Vigo could have also issued an official statement about the refereeing mistakes they faced.

“Just after what had happened to us, the following week they made the statement. We mentioned it as an anecdote, we could have made a statement too,” Mingueza said.

The comments from the former Barcelona full-back have reignited scrutiny of Real Madrid’s perceived influence on refereeing decisions. While Madrid has expressed their concerns, other teams, like Celta Vigo, are left to accept controversial decisions without much recourse.

Mingueza’s remarks emphasize a growing belief among La Liga teams that refereeing decisions often favor Real Madrid in pivotal moments. His words add to the growing chorus of criticism regarding the consistency and fairness of officiating in Spanish football.

The controversy over refereeing decisions has only intensified in recent weeks. While Barcelona focuses on their title challenge, their supporters have highlighted instances where Real Madrid benefited from dubious calls, with the Copa del Rey match against Celta Vigo being one such example.

Notably, Mingueza, who came through Barcelona’s La Masia academy, has built a solid career at Celta Vigo. Since leaving Barcelona in 2022, he has become a key player for his current team and has even been linked with a move to the Premier League, with Aston Villa reportedly interested in him.

Even though Mingueza has moved on from Barcelona, his ties to the club remain strong, and his comments are likely to resonate with many Blaugrana fans. His outspoken views on refereeing reflect the frustrations of teams outside the Madrid-Barcelona rivalry, who often feel their concerns are ignored.

As the La Liga title race continues to heat up, every refereeing decision will be closely scrutinized. If Barcelona can secure three points against Rayo Vallecano in their next match, they will briefly overtake Real Madrid at the top of the table on goal difference, adding more drama to the La Liga title race.

As the season reaches its climax, the focus on refereeing standards will only grow. Every call and controversy will be examined closely as the competition for La Liga supremacy plays out.

For now, Mingueza’s comments serve as a reminder that Real Madrid’s issues with refereeing are not isolated, and that many clubs feel they too have been the victims of unjust decisions. Whether La Liga’s officiating authorities will address these concerns remains to be seen, but the debate over refereeing in Spanish football is far from resolved.