In the recent ongoing rivalry between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, tensions seem to be escalating once again. Real Madrid TV has launched an attack on FC Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez, following his criticism of the pressure that the channel supposedly puts on referees before matches.
Xavi expressed his disapproval of this practice, stating that he fully agreed with the President's sentiments. Back in January, Barcelona president Joan Laporta had asserted that competitions in Spain, including La Liga, were 'adulterated.' Xavi echoed this sentiment, expressing his surprise at the acceptance of such behavior that he believes distorts the competition week after week.
Real Madrid TV seized the opportunity to respond to Xavi's criticism after analyzing Sunday's 1-1 draw in the Madrid derby and the performance of referee Jose Maria Sanchez Martinez. They pointedly addressed Xavi's request for the officials to 'let us compete' and accused him of trying to divert attention away from the ongoing Caso Negreira scandal.
The Caso Negreira controversy centers around allegations that Barcelona made payments exceeding $7.5 million to the former Vice President of the Referees Committee between 2001 and 2018. However, Barcelona denies any wrongdoing and claims that these payments were for legitimate consultation work.
Real Madrid TV wasted no time in firing back at Xavi's comments, casting doubt on his own integrity as a player. They highlighted that Xavi's matches are currently under investigation by the Prosecutor's Office and a judge, suggesting that the coach's entire career is tainted. Real Madrid TV sarcastically questioned Xavi's notion of fair play, emphasizing the transparency they claim to provide through their coverage.
The channel went on to express frustration at the alleged bias against Real Madrid, claiming that images showing Madrid being disadvantaged mysteriously disappear from the narrative and fail to appear on national television. They also alluded to recent incidents involving Girona, insinuating that certain platforms loudly criticize Madrid while remaining silent on issues concerning Barcelona.
Real Madrid TV concluded their tirade by suggesting that they are under immense pressure and insinuating that Xavi and Laporta would find satisfaction in the referee's decisions not favoring Madrid. It is clear from their statement that the channel feels they are unjustly targeted and that they are bravely addressing these biases with transparency.
As rivalries in football continue to fuel controversy and stir emotions, it is important to remember that each team and individual is entitled to their opinions. It remains to be seen whether this exchange between Real Madrid TV and Xavi will further escalate tensions or result in a more constructive dialogue.
