Iago Aspas:
Real Madrid’s Complaints About Refereeing Are Laughable
Iago Aspas made interesting remarks about Real Madrid ahead of their upcoming match.
According to reports, Celta Vigo will face Real Madrid this Sunday in the 34th round of La Liga at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Securing three points is crucial for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.
Aspas shared intriguing thoughts with Spanish outlet AS ahead of the match.
– This Sunday, you will face a Real Madrid side still recovering from their Copa del Rey final defeat.
Aspas: They are coming back from a defeat and will surely want to redeem themselves in front of their fans. They need a win to keep up with Barcelona before El Clásico.
– What could prevent you from winning at the Bernabéu?
Aspas: I eliminated them in the Copa del Rey. In the league, we haven’t beaten them in years. We’ve had some draws and heavy losses… Ultimately, Real is one of the best teams in the world, and losing to them isn’t unusual.
– But what happened in the Copa del Rey wasn’t normal, was it?
Aspas: The match was televised; everyone saw it, so they can draw their own conclusions…
– I’m interested in your opinion.
Aspas: Well, I’ve shared my thoughts on social media. Some decisions were questionable from a Celta fan’s perspective, but those in Madrid naturally see it differently.
– Two weeks later, Real Madrid released a statement criticizing refereeing after losing to Espanyol. How did you feel seeing that?
Aspas: Well, I just laughed.
– Do you think Real Madrid pressures referees?
Aspas: Honestly, I don’t know. I’ve never watched one of their TV channel’s referee analysis videos. You hear things, but I don’t pay much attention.
– This Sunday, referee Manzano will officiate the match.
Aspas: He’s been refereeing at the top level for years and is very good. In my opinion, he’s one of the best in La Liga.
– What do you think about Jude Bellingham’s suspension being overturned?
Aspas: I hope this sets a precedent for other teams to appeal suspensions. Of course, it’s bad news for us that Bellingham will play.
– Do you think Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe are below their usual level?
Aspas: Mbappe has scored over 20 goals, and Vinicius was runner-up for the Ballon d’Or—I think he deserved it as much as Rodrygo. There are moments in a season when players peak, but these are players beyond doubt.