La Liga president Javier Tebas has rejected claims that referees are conspiring against Real Madrid, describing the idea as “living in another galaxy”. His comments followed manager José Mourinho’s reaction to Madrid’s 2-1 derby defeat by Atlético Madrid, during which he displayed screenshots of tackles he believed should have resulted in red cards.

Tebas criticised media narratives suggesting referees protect the league’s interests by favouring influential clubs, arguing that decisions should not depend on revenue, audiences or reputation. He said Real Madrid are important to La Liga but insisted the competition belongs to no single club, while Madrid’s uneven start has left them six points behind leaders and reigning champions Barcelona.