Masip accuses Madrid of undermining the competition ahead of the clásico

Laporta’s advisor criticises the refereeing narrative and compares Mourinho to Hansi Flick

The Nacex Challenge brought together Barça and Madrid legends this Thursday in Sant Esteve de Sesrovires, ahead of Sunday’s clásico at the Spotify Camp Nou. At Club de Golf Barcelona, Enric Masip took the opportunity to criticise Real Madrid’s stance on refereeing.

The advisor to FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta argues that questioning the integrity of the refereeing system harms the entire competition. In his view, Madrid uses this strategy to distract from its own problems.

Refereeing controversy also affects the clubs

Masip criticised the way debates are organised as if they were trials and reports are presented as verdicts. He also reproached Madrid for talking about Negreira when, in his opinion, they should focus on what is happening within their own club.

The former player believes a red line has been crossed. He claims the debate damages the image of the competition, the Federation, and the referees, and disrespects all the clubs, even if some think it only affects Barça.

Masip added that he feels offended and angry because, according to him, nothing has been proven in three and a half years. He also recalled that years ago, people did not refer to dark periods in the country’s history when, in his view, one team benefited and won titles.

Masip contrasts Mourinho with Hansi Flick

The advisor criticised José Mourinho’s narrative and questioned his references to alleged irregularities. He said that when results don’t go your way, you should focus on improving rather than attacking others; he also accused Madrid of trying to cause harm, though he believes people no longer take them seriously.

Comparing the Portuguese coach to Hansi Flick, Masip argued that Mourinho makes insinuations while Flick represents Barça’s values. According to him, for Mourinho and Real Madrid, the blame always lies with others.

Arda Güler’s action against Sevilla

Masip also commented on Arda Güler’s incident in the last league match against Sevilla. Although he acknowledged the footage was unclear, he felt the player should have been sent off for an elbow and, as a result, will miss the clásico.

He also reproached the fact that the incident was not discussed the following day. On the Barça side, the absence of Dani Olmo—who will be out for nearly a month—is another recent issue, according to information about his injury.