Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso addresses refereeing controversy from Mallorca vs Barcelona | OneFootball

FC Barcelona began their La Liga campaign with a 3-0 victory over nine-man Mallorca away at Estadi Son Moix on Saturday.

The match had its fair share of controversial moments, especially in the first half, when a few of the refereeing decisions angered the Mallorca camp and their supporters present at the stadium.

One of the biggest talking points was the decision to award Ferran Torres’ goal for Barcelona as the hosts protested that one of their players was down on the field with a potential head injury.

However, the referee never blew his whistle, and Barça went on with the play as Ferran buried the ball into the net.

Expressing his dismay, Mallorca manager Jagoba Arrasate had said (h/t Mundo Deportivo): “We’ve all seen that incident, and last week they explained it to us in the debriefing. If there’s a blow to the head, the game stops.

“We all thought he blew the whistle but he gives a goal; I don’t quite understand. He [the referee] came, I appreciate it, and he says Raillo wasn’t dizzy, even though he doesn’t know that.”

Xabi Alonso on the refereeing controversy

Speaking ahead of his La Liga managerial debut tomorrow, Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso was asked about what he thought of the refereeing in the Mallorca vs Barcelona game.

Mallorca players arguing with the referee during Barcelona clash. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

In response, the Basque manager agreed with the assessment of Mallorca head coach Arrasate, saying:

“It’s not my place to comment on what’s happening in other parties, but I did hear what Jagoba Arrasate said, and he explained it very well.”

Xabi Alonso also stood by Real Madrid’s stance of opposing the La Liga game between Villarreal and Barcelona being moved to the US later this year, as he said:

“I fully agree with the club’s statement. If the rules are changed, it must be with the approval of all clubs, and that hasn’t happened.”

The Real Madrid boss was also asked about his thoughts on Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal and his meteoric rise to the top.

“I don’t have a blood pressure monitor. He’s been an important player for Barça and the national team. It’s time to face him,” said Alonso.

Source: Mundo Deportivo