LSN News › India

Sport · India Bureau

Atletico Madrid Hits Back at Mourinho Over Refereeing Complaints

Atletico Madrid has demanded an end to what it calls "refereeing harassment" after Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho publicly criticized match official Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias following their recent encounter.

LSN India · 22 September 2026

The Spanish club's strong rebuke came a day after Mourinho voiced his displeasure with the performance of Ortiz Arias during the fixture between the two Madrid rivals. Atletico Madrid officials argued that such public criticism of referees sets a troubling precedent and undermines the integrity of match officials.

Mourinho's comments about Ortiz Arias' conduct during the game have intensified the ongoing debate about refereeing standards in Spanish football. The Real Madrid coach did not hold back in his assessment of key decisions made during the match.

Atletico Madrid's statement represents an escalation in the tensions between the two clubs, with the club demanding that coaches and management exercise greater restraint when commenting on officiating. The club emphasized that persistent public attacks on referees contribute to an unhealthy environment in professional football.

The incident highlights the continued friction between the two Madrid clubs and raises questions about acceptable standards for post-match commentary from coaches and club officials in La Liga.