The tension between Spain’s two biggest football institutions has never been higher, and this week added another layer of fire to the ongoing feud.
Barcelona’s Champions League semi-final qualification has lifted spirits in Catalonia, but away from the pitch, the club is furious over what they see as blatant favouritism in La Liga.
With Hansi Flick ushering in a new era of discipline and identity, Barcelona have made a point of respecting sporting values—both on and off the pitch.
In recent weeks, the Catalans have voiced their frustration with inconsistencies in refereeing, and now the latest controversy involving a rival superstar has pushed things over the edge.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has been at the centre of the storm following an incident that has shocked Spanish football.
The Frenchman, who joined Los Blancos in the summer with much fanfare, was sent off against Alaves after a dangerous studs-up tackle in the first half.
Many expected the league to throw the book at him, with calls for a multi-game suspension echoing across the football community.
However, the decision that followed left many stunned—Mbappe was only handed a one-match ban, despite the severity of the offence.
Barcelona vice-president Rafa Yuste couldn’t hide his fury when speaking to RAC1 as cited by Mundo Deportivo this week, calling the decision “absolutely absurd” and “a disgrace.”
“The tackle and the sanction are absolutely absurd.
“It was shocking and could have injured the opponent,” Rafa Yuste said, visibly frustrated by what he perceives as a double standard.
The club believes that had the same challenge come from a Barcelona player, the consequences would have been far more severe, both in terms of punishment and media coverage.
This growing resentment ties into a broader sentiment at Camp Nou, where many feel La Liga’s governing bodies are failing to apply consistent rules across the board.
Yuste’s comments come at a time when Barcelona are trying to protect their young squad from external pressures as they push for silverware on multiple fronts.
While Flick continues his charge for titles, Barcelona’s top officials are battling another war—one against what they believe is institutional bias.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
