Mourinho Blasts Atletico Madrid Referees After Real Madrid Defeat
Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho expressed strong displeasure with the refereeing of the Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid match, which ended in a 2-1 victory for the visitors at the Metropolitano stadium on Sunday.
Details of the complaint
Mourinho highlighted the red card shown by referee Miguel Ortiz Arias to Real Madrid defender Dan Hausen in the 52nd minute after pulling an Atletico attacker by the arm inside the penalty area. The coach deemed the decision unjustified, noting that the 41‑year‑old, non‑international referee could not handle the pressure.
He also criticized the role of the VAR official, stating that VAR manager Mr. Trochiu did not intervene in another, clearer incident that should have resulted in a card.
Context
The criticism comes as Real Madrid struggles in La Liga, currently sitting fourth behind league leaders Barcelona, Real Betis and Atletico Madrid, with a 15‑point gap to the top. Mourinho, 63, affirmed the team’s desire to gain more points and improve its standing.
He expressed respect for his players despite the loss and pledged continued support for those who gave their all on the pitch.
Concluding the press conference, the coach called for better officiating standards and more accurate VAR usage to avoid similar disputes.
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