La Liga’s Tebas Slams Real Madrid’s ‘Manipulation’ Claims

Javier Tebas accuses Real Madrid of creating a ‘victimhood’ narrative amid referee controversies

There’s something almost theatrical about the ongoing feud between La Liga President Javier Tebas and Real Madrid. It’s a clash of titans, where football politics and narratives intertwine to create a spectacle as riveting as the matches on the pitch. The latest chapter? Tebas accusing Real Madrid of concocting a “victimhood” narrative following their heated complaints about refereeing decisions.

Last weekend, Real Madrid, a club synonymous with dominance and success, made headlines for reasons that had little to do with their on-field performance. After Espanyol’s Carlos Romero escaped a red card for a reckless tackle on Kylian Mbappé—only to then score the match-winning goal—Real Madrid sent a fiery letter to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). They accused the referees of “manipulation” and “double standards,” claiming the officiating had reached a level of bias that could no longer be ignored.

For Tebas, however, this wasn’t just a complaint—it was an orchestrated attempt to undermine the league’s credibility. Speaking at a La Liga meeting, Tebas pulled no punches: “Real Madrid wants to harm the competition, not just the refereeing group. They have built a story of victimhood, and the cherry on top was that letter. Football doesn’t revolve around Real Madrid.” His words cut deep, highlighting a broader tension between the league’s governance and its most iconic club.

This isn’t the first time Real Madrid has faced accusations of deflecting blame through referee criticism. Gerard Piqué, the retired Barcelona defender, echoed Tebas’ sentiments. In his typically candid style, Piqué remarked, “This is what Madrid has always done—turning on the ‘machinery’ when things aren’t going well. It’s a smokescreen.” With 120 years of history, Real Madrid’s critics argue that their dominance has often been accompanied by a narrative that shifts focus away from defeats or underperformance.

But is Tebas entirely justified in his critique? Real Madrid’s grievances aren’t without merit. Refereeing inconsistencies have plagued football for years, and fans across the globe have often questioned the impartiality of officiating. However, the timing and tone of Madrid’s complaints have raised eyebrows, leading many to wonder whether their actions are more about influencing public perception than seeking genuine reform.

For Tebas, this episode is emblematic of a larger battle for control and influence within Spanish football. As the league’s president, he has consistently clashed with Real Madrid over issues ranging from broadcasting rights to the European Super League. This latest spat feels like another chapter in a long-running saga, one that underscores the complex relationship between La Liga’s leadership and its most powerful club.

Ultimately, the “victimhood” narrative Tebas accuses Real Madrid of constructing is as much about power dynamics as it is about referees. It’s a reminder that in football, the battles off the pitch can be just as intense—and just as consequential—as those on it. Whether you side with Tebas or Madrid, one thing is clear: this story is far from over.

References: ‘Built a story of victimhood’ – La Liga chief blasts Real Madrid for referee complaints