Real Madrid do not expect any changes in refereeing system despite RFEF promise | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s ongoing disagreement with the refereeing system in Spanish football appears to have reached a critical point.

According to MARCA, the club’s leaders believe it is nearly impossible to repair their strained relationship with the Technical Committee of Referees due to lingering issues, particularly the legacy linked to Negreira’s past role within the system.

The conflict between Real Madrid and the referees is not a recent development. Although the controversial game against Espanyol added fuel to the fire, this dispute has been brewing for years.

The events during that match, particularly Carlos Romero’s aggressive challenge on Kylian Mbappe and the perceived lack of appropriate action, highlighted what Real Madrid sees as a deep-rooted problem.

What are Real Madrid’s thoughts?

Following Real Madrid’s strong reaction, the Spanish Football Federation attempted to extend an olive branch, seeking dialogue and understanding. However, the club’s leadership remains sceptical about any meaningful progress.

They are expected to attend a scheduled meeting with representatives from all top-tier and second-tier teams, as well as referees. Whether Real Madrid will actually send a representative remains uncertain.

Carlos Romero deserved a red card against Real Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The core of Real Madrid’s frustration lies not with individual referees but with the entire system. The club believes that the refereeing structure, influenced by the Federation, is inherently flawed and lacks the independence required for objective decision-making.

As long as referees remain under the Federation’s influence, Real Madrid are doubtful about any real changes happening.

Tension within the community

The situation has also created tension within the refereeing community. Reports suggest that Medina Cantalejo’s reprimand and punishment of referees earlier in the week did not sit well with officials, who already face immense pressure on the pitch.

The decision led to dissatisfaction among referees, many of whom feel misunderstood and underappreciated by both football clubs and the Federation itself.

Real Madrid’s concerns highlight a larger debate about the integrity and independence of Spanish football’s refereeing system—a challenge that may require significant structural reform to address properly.