Mourinho backs referee Montero after Mbappe penalty controversy

Jose Mourinho defended the officiating after Real Madrid’s 3-0 win over Racing Santander, saying referee Munuera Montero had produced a strong technical performance despite debate over the penalty awarded to Kylian Mbappe and several other decisions.

Speaking after the match at El Sardinero, Mourinho rejected Racing Santander’s appeal for a penalty following a handball involving Aurelien Tchouameni. He said the referee had dealt well with the contested incidents during the game.

“​​They protested about everything,” Mourinho said. “I really like this stadium; it is special. People do not come to the cinema simply to watch a show – here, the fans play. But there are many people who do not know the rules, partly because they are constantly changing.”

He added: “It was not a penalty against Tchouameni. From 60 metres away I could not see it, but when I saw it, I was certain the video assistant referee had not missed anything. It was not a penalty. The referee was very good technically.”

Mourinho said the result could have been 4-0, although he acknowledged that the match had threatened to become difficult at certain stages.

“It is a good win in an important week,” he said, while praising the team’s progress and the commitment shown by his players physically and tactically.

The Portuguese manager also highlighted the contributions of Jude Bellingham and Diomande. He said Real Madrid had players with outstanding physical and tactical qualities and described the group as highly committed.

Mourinho added that the side was improving gradually but still needed to score more goals, particularly against opponents who defend in a compact shape.

Mourinho turns attention to Athens

The manager said confidence within the squad was rising as victories continued to build. He also stressed the importance of the emotional side of football, saying positive results made matches appear easier.

He singled out Trent, who delivered an excellent performance despite having missed several games.

Mourinho explained a gesture he made during the match after Real Madrid moved three goals ahead, saying he had been trying to protect his side from an unexpected setback.

“Can you imagine if one of the arrogant players took advantage of our mistake and took a quick free-kick?” he said. “I try to help the team in every way possible.”

The manager revealed that his attention had already begun to shift towards the next match in Athens. He said the substitutions he made had not been decided in advance, as he was considering resting players who would not start the upcoming fixture.

Mourinho indicated that four or five changes could be made, while noting that Spanish football wanted its teams to secure victories.

Real Madrid are scheduled to face AEK Athens in the UEFA Champions League on 04 November 2026, before playing Malaga in La Liga on 07 November 2026.