Real Madrid News
Atletico Madrid players respond to Real Madrid refereeing complaints after derby win: ‘If they made that decision…’
Atletico Madrid players were asked to address the refereeing controversy surrounding their 2-1 victory over Real Madrid, with Giuliano Simeone, Alex Baena and Jan Oblak offering their views on the major incidents at the Metropolitano.
Giuliano was named Man of the Match after playing a decisive role in the victory.
He won the penalty that led to Dean Huijsen’s dismissal and later provided the assist for Jonathan David’s winning goal.
With the derby dominated by discussion around Ortiz Arias and several VAR decisions, the Atletico players were inevitably asked about the officiating after the final whistle.
Giuliano Simeone defends the referee
Giuliano was first asked about the scrutiny surrounding the officials and chose to take a measured approach, to which he said,
“I have a lot of respect for the referees; sometimes they make mistakes. I have a lot of respect for them because, first and foremost, they’re people.”
The Argentine was then asked whether the controversy could overshadow Atletico’s victory. His response was focused on what the team could control.
“To be honest, we always focus on ourselves; that’s the sort of news you’ll be reporting. We focus on ourselves, on trying to improve.”
Giuliano was also asked about Jose Mourinho’s comments regarding refereeing, but again refused to criticise the officials.
“I have a great deal of respect for the referees. Sometimes they get it right, sometimes they get it wrong. If they made that decision, it’s because that’s how they saw it. “
Alex Baena backs Romero after Bellingham incident
Alex Baena was asked specifically about the first-half challenge involving Cristian Romero and Jude Bellingham.
The incident was reviewed by VAR after Ortiz Arias initially booked Bellingham, with the referee eventually cancelling the Real Madrid midfielder’s yellow card and showing Romero a booking instead.
Baena did not believe the challenge deserved a dismissal.
“I saw the Cuti incident, and I think both players were going in for the ball. I think this is the first time a yellow card has been rescinded.
“We know Cuti: he’s a very aggressive player who goes all out for the ball. I don’t think it warranted a red card; it was left at a yellow and I’m fine with that.”
He also praised the referee for allowing the derby to maintain its rhythm.
“The referee lets the game flow quite a lot, which is great for the spectators. The match hasn’t been stopped very often, and that benefits the flow of the game.”
Jan Oblak gives his verdict on both controversial calls
Oblak offered a slightly different assessment when asked about the Romero incident and Huijsen’s penalty.
“The referee went back to review both incidents and made his decision. Against Villarreal, they blew the whistle against us (Le Normand), and I think this one was the same.
“Both were red cards; that’s what they decided. They reviewed them, and there’s nothing more to say.”
It must be remembered that the VAR played a major role in the final outcome of the Madrid derby
While Real Madrid’s players and media outlets have continued to question several decisions, Atletico players have largely backed the officials and insisted the focus should remain on their victory.
Source: AS
Real Madrid News
Arsenal in contact with Real Madrid forward’s camp over potential transfer – report
Doubts about Rodrygo Goes’ long-term future at Real Madrid having been growing for some time.
The Brazilian’s situation had become uncomfortable over the past couple of seasons as he experienced a sudden decline in form. And, just when it seemed like he was about to turn things around, an ACL injury ruled him out in March earlier this year.
With Rodrygo now facing an extended spell on the sidelines, his recovery will be crucial. He is expected to return in December or January, and the club will monitor how he responds physically before determining what role he will play under Jose Mourinho.
Arsenal keeping tabs on Rodrygo
Now, according to TEAMtalk (h/t Bernabeu Digital), Arsenal are in contact with Rodrygo’s representatives over a potential future move.
The report states that the Gunners had already attempted to sign the Brazilian before his injury, and their interest has now resurfaced ahead of a possible move in the summer of 2027.
The Premier League champions had also explored the possibility of signing Vinicius Jr. from Real Madrid this past summer, before he signed a new long-term contract at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Now, their attention seems to have switched Vinicius’ fellow Brazilian forward who is closing in on his return from the ACL rupture.
Real Madrid want to keep Rodrygo until the summer
As already reported, Rodrygo will not leave Real Madrid in January. The intention is for the winger to regain full fitness and become available to Mourinho for the second half of the season.
Real Madrid are not considering selling the former Santos wonderkid during the January transfer window.
Instead, the club intend to reassess his situation next summer, once he has had the opportunity to recover and demonstrate his form on the pitch.
The plan is to have the Brazilian fit and available for the second half of the campaign before making a final decision at the end of the season.
Rodrygo’s performances after returning from injury, together with Mourinho’s assessment of his role in the squad, will help determine what happens next.
Depending on those factors, Real Madrid could consider allowing him to leave or decide that he still has an important future at the Santiago Bernabeu.
For now, Arsenal’s interest remains a possibility to watch, but Real Madrid are focused on Rodrygo’s recovery rather than negotiating a January departure.
