Enrique Cerezo Calls for Calm in Spanish Refereeing Row

Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has called for an end to the escalating dispute over refereeing in Spain, insisting football’s leading figures must lower the temperature rather than fuel conflict.

Speaking in Germany before Atletico’s European meeting with Stuttgart, Cerezo said the current tension surrounding officials and decision-making was damaging the game. He urged club executives to set a calmer example, while conceding that complaints about referees are inevitable across the league.

“There should not be a war in football, least of all among the executives,” Cerezo said. “We all complain about everything. We have complained too and we will probably keep complaining.”

The Atletico chief nevertheless offered a defence of referees, arguing that errors are unavoidable when officials must make instant calls without the benefit of repeated television replays and alternative camera angles.

“We have to support them, because referees make mistakes when they do not see something,” he said.

Cerezo was asked specifically about the disputed Arda Guler incident during Real Madrid’s match against Villarreal. His view was that the referee would have awarded the decision had he seen it properly.

“I saw it clearly, but perhaps the referee did not,” Cerezo said. “I am sure that if he sees it, he gives it. If he does not see it, then I suppose that is why he did not blow the whistle.”

Champions League target remains

Attention now turns to Atletico’s trip to Stuttgart, with Cerezo stressing that a strong away result is required if the club are to remain on course for a place in the Champions League final.

He praised Diego Simeone’s work and said the Argentine continues to represent Atletico’s character after delivering sustained success and stability. The Champions League, however, remains the major honour missing from Simeone’s Atletico record.

“Diego is a coach who has shown everything,” Cerezo said. “He has achieved everything with us and, practically, what remains is the Champions League.”

Cerezo described Atletico’s current squad as a strong group, highlighting their focus during a packed stretch of fixtures. He expects the side to close the campaign strongly and challenge for silverware.

“We will finish well and achieve what we want: titles and victories,” he said.