The Portuguese coach drew parallels to controversies from fifteen years prior, pointing directly to disciplinary decisions involving Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham.
The Catalyst: Disputed Red Cards and First-Half Control
Speaking to media outlets after the match, Mourinho asserted that the contest’s turning point hinged on officiating calls rather than on-pitch tactical shifts. According to the manager’s press room remarks, the decisive moments centered on robust challenges made by Valverde and Bellingham.
“We could have saved ourselves the press conference because the story of the match is in the tackles on Valverde and Bellingham,” Mourinho stated. “They are two clear red cards. We had many difficulties afterwards with a man down, and I have to limit myself to embracing my players, who played a great first half of class and personality.”
Scrutiny of the Appointment Committee and VAR Officials
Shifting focus from the pitch to the administrative bodies, Mourinho questioned the timing of the referee’s appointment and the background of the video assistant referee. The manager argued that the assignment process departed from standard operating procedures.
“Whoever has to be happy, besides Atlético, is the Designation Committee,” Mourinho said. “It has been all very strange. A week before, it was already known who the referee was, when normally it is 24 hours before.”
The coach further detailed concerns regarding the officiating crew’s experience levels and historical precedents involving Real Madrid fixtures. In comments recorded by reporters, Mourinho highlighted the age and international status of the match official alongside the identity of the VAR official.
“Then the referee is 41 years old and is not international, so he won’t be a great referee,” Mourinho noted, before pointing to the VAR official, Mr. Trujillo. “And then Mr. Trujillo, who was the VAR, called him for the first red card and I believe not for the second, and he has a rich and tremendous history with Madrid. Without going any further, last year Osasuna, Real, Girona… Poor referee who has only done tiny matches and the VAR gentleman who has a great history with Madrid. In Las Rozas there is no pressure. Or is there? Congratulations to the Committee.”
