Mourinho challenges refereeing after Atletico defeat
The Real Madrid manager alleged two Atletico players should have been sent off, while Federico Valverde faces further tests after an ankle injury.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has criticised referee Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias after his side’s 2–1 defeat by Atletico Madrid in the Madrid derby.
Mourinho displayed images of challenges involving Cristian Romero and Lee Kang-in, alleging they warranted red cards. The claims, reported by Al Jazeera Global News, concerned Romero’s stamp on Jude Bellingham and Lee’s challenge on Federico Valverde.
Real were reduced to 10 men five minutes after half-time when defender Dean Huijsen was sent off for bringing down Giuliano Simeone inside the area. Alejandro Grimaldo converted the resulting penalty before Jonathan David extended Atletico’s lead. Antonio Ruediger headed in late for Real.
Valverde completed the match but was later diagnosed by the club with severe trauma to his left ankle. Real said the midfielder would undergo further tests, leaving the extent of the injury unresolved.
Mourinho also questioned the referee’s appointment and said Real wanted to compete on a level playing field. Atletico manager Diego Simeone urged restraint, saying public comments should remain within the bounds of respect.
The result lifted Atletico above Real into second place with 16 points, five behind leaders Barcelona and one ahead of Real and Real Betis.
