Lamine Yamal Defends LaLiga Referees and Calls for calm amid controversy
While Real Madrid continues to express its discontent with refereeing in LaLiga, Lamine Yamal has taken a different stance and defended the Iberian referees. The young forward of Barcelona believes that refereeing is a constantly debated topic and that, despite the criticism, officials try to do their job as best as possible.
In recent weeks, refereeing decisions in LaLiga have been the center of controversy. Among the teams that have protested the most, Real Madrid has been the most vocal, especially highlighting the expulsion of Jude Bellingham during the match against Osasuna, which ended in a 1-1 draw. According to the media, the English player could face a two-match suspension for allegedly making vulgar comments toward the referee. In light of this situation, Lamine Yamal has decided to share his view.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Yamal commented on one of the most discussed plays of the week, the penalty awarded to Robert Lewandowski in Barcelona's victory over Rayo Vallecano (1-0), and the disallowed goal for the visiting team due to a highly debated offside. The young forward did not hesitate to share his opinion: "Honestly, I didn't see the play, but I assume there was offside if VAR intervened. The penalty on Iñigo Martínez was very clear, no doubt about it, but the fact is that lately, almost everything is questioned," he said.
Lamine Yamal also took the opportunity to reflect on the general situation of refereeing in Spanish football. "If it's whistled for one team, the other complains. And if neither complains, another team that isn't playing will do so," said the Spanish international, pointing out that the nature of football will always bring controversies. Despite this, Yamal expressed satisfaction with the refereeing work, despite the constant criticism referees face.
Regarding the protests from the top clubs, Yamal recalled a penalty that wasn't called on Jules Koundé in the match against Getafe, and how in other competitions, like the Copa del Rey, refereeing decisions have favored different teams at various moments. "Referees try to do their best. We can't complain at Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Atlético," added the Barcelona player, acknowledging that refereeing will never be perfect.
Finally, Lamine Yamal concluded by asking for the referee controversy to be put aside, as, according to him, constant criticism does not contribute to football. "It's a very difficult job because there will always be someone who complains. We are very happy with the refereeing," he stated, ending his remarks with a clear message of support for the referees, who will continue to be a topic of discussion in Spanish football, especially in the upcoming LaLiga matchday.
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