Sevilla President Criticizes Barcelona and Real Madrid

José María del Nido Carrasco, the current president of Sevilla FC, has publicly criticized both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. In a pre-match interview with DAZN before Sevilla’s league game against Barcelona, del Nido addressed two controversial topics: the Negreira case involving Barcelona and Real Madrid’s recent statement about referees.

Regarding Barcelona and the Negreira case, del Nido stated, “They haven’t provided a logical explanation, and our stance remains unchanged.” He emphasized his decision not to attend Barcelona’s presidential box until the payments to Negreira are clarified, saying, “I won’t sit in Barcelona’s box until they explain the Negreira payments.” However, he clarified that Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, is welcome in Sevilla’s box.

Del Nido also directed criticism towards Real Madrid, particularly concerning their recent statement about referees. He described Real Madrid’s communication as “intolerable and unacceptable,” arguing that it questions the integrity of the competition and the honesty of referees. “We must denounce this,” he insisted. The Sevilla president further accused Real Madrid of attempting to “destroy Spanish football” through their TV channel, Real Madrid TV.

In a show of support for referees, del Nido stated, “We give unconditional support to the referees. We don’t tolerate doubts about their honesty.” He suggested that such actions aim to pressure referees and prevent them from officiating normally.

The Sevilla president also expressed surprise at Barcelona’s position, questioning, “Is it worth admitting such behavior just to pick up the crumbs?” He called on Barcelona to lead Spanish football positively rather than contribute to its destruction.

These statements from del Nido Carrasco highlight the ongoing tensions and controversies in Spanish football, particularly involving the country’s two most prominent clubs.