José Mourinho: Atlético Madrid Hit Back at Real Madrid Boss After Referee Criticism Following Derby Defeat

Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has urged José Mourinho to show greater respect in his public comments after the Real Madrid boss criticised the referee following Sunday’s 2-1 derby defeat.

Mourinho arrived at his post-match press conference with printed images of two incidents involving Atlético players that he believed should have resulted in red cards. He argued that the decisions had a major impact on the game.

The Real Madrid manager was particularly unhappy with challenges involving Cristian Romero and Lee Kang-in. Mourinho argued that Romero should have been sent off for an incident involving Jude Bellingham, while he also believed Lee Kang-in deserved a red card for his challenge on Federico Valverde.   

Real Madrid were later reduced to 10 men when defender Dean Huijsen was sent off after bringing down Giuliano Simeone in the penalty area. Alejandro Grimaldo converted the resulting penalty before Jonathan David doubled Atlético’s advantage. Antonio Rüdiger scored a late goal for Madrid, but Atlético held on for the victory.

Mourinho said the incidents he highlighted were “two clear red cards” and questioned the appointment of referee Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias. He also said Real Madrid had been placed at a disadvantage after Huijsen’s dismissal.

Atlético coach Simeone responded by saying coaches at major clubs have a responsibility to be careful with their public statements. He said managers, regardless of their reputation, should respect referees, opposing coaches and other people involved in the game.

“I understand that we’re in a privileged position with a lot of public scrutiny,” Simeone said, adding that crossing the line of respect was not appropriate.

The derby also carried significant consequences in the La Liga table. Atlético moved into second place with 16 points, while Real Madrid remained behind them and six points adrift of leaders Barcelona after seven matches.

The result was Real Madrid’s second defeat of the league campaign and Mourinho’s first loss in the Madrid derby since returning to the club. The focus after the match, however, quickly shifted from the result to the continuing debate over the referee’s decisions and Mourinho’s response