Jose Mourinho questions refereeing ahead of Real Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid

Jose Mourinho has reignited discussion about refereeing before Real Madrid’s derby against Atletico Madrid, despite insisting he prefers not to talk about officials before matches.

The Real Madrid manager was speaking at a news conference at Valdebebas, one day before the eagerly awaited fixture at Wanda Metropolitano.

Mourinho was reminded of previous comments in which he expressed surprise that he had not been asked about the penalties awarded to Barcelona and Atletico Madrid during the previous round of matches.

“What about the penalties awarded last week?” the Portuguese said. “It is too late now. One round of matches has finished, and we can talk about why Elche finished the match with 11 players.”

He then turned his attention to the referee appointed for the derby, saying: “It is a little strange that we knew the referee for tomorrow’s match a week ago.”

Mourinho nevertheless made clear that he trusted the official selected to take charge of the game.

“I prefer to say that if he has been appointed, it is because he has enough ability and experience for a match with this level of emotion,” he added.

“I do not like talking about referees before the match. I have complete confidence in him before the game, and we will see what happens afterwards.”