Florentino Perez Blames Referees for Real Madrid's La Liga Woes

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez accuses referees of bias and suggests they cost his team 18 points this season, aiding Barcelona's La Liga title defense. Amid internal strife and no major titles won, Perez calls for new club elections. Controversy surrounds alleged referee favoritism for Barcelona.

In a heated tirade following Real Madrid's failure to clinch the La Liga title, club president Florentino Perez lashed out at referees, blaming them for a perceived bias that cost his team 18 points this season. His remarks come after a 2-0 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona, who secured a 14-point lead to seal their 29th top-flight title.

During a press conference, Perez expressed dissatisfaction with having won only seven La Liga titles during his presidency, stating that he deserved 14. Citing Goal.com, he alleged, "The referees have stolen 18 points from us in LaLiga." He accused the refereeing body, with former vice-president Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira under scrutiny, of unfair practices favoring Barcelona.

Adding to the controversy are allegations that Negreira received over seven million euros from Barcelona from 2001-2018. While the Spanish prosecutor's office claims these payments were for favorable refereeing, Barcelona insists they were for reports and advice. Amidst these tensions and a lackluster season without major silverware, Perez announced upcoming club elections, indicating a potential shift in leadership dynamics.