Real Madrid release statement over Copa del Rey final boycott claims | OneFootball

Real Madrid have rejected suggestions they considered boycotting the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona due to concerns about the refereeing team.

The build-up to Saturday's final has been dominated by more refereeing controversy after Madrid's official TV network published a video criticising referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, who broke down in tears during a press conference responding to the video.

VAR official Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes then took the stage to insist there would soon be "consequences" for Madrid's actions, warning Los Blancos that referees will take action against the criticism.

"There is no doubt that we are going to begin to take measures, more serious than those currently being taken," he said. "We are not going to continue to allow what is happening; in a few days, you will hear about what is to come. This is going to make history; we are not going to continue to put up with what we are putting up with."

Madrid then released a statement condemning the comments and calling for a change in refereeing team, which was rejected. In response, Madrid cancelled their public training session, refused to attend a pre-match press conference and failed to turn up for a photoshoot.

There were then significant reports that Madrid were considering boycotting the final altogether, but a new statement has put those fears to bed.

"In light of the rumours that have emerged in recent hours, Real Madrid CF announces that our team has never considered withdrawing from today's final," the club wrote.

"Our club understands that the unfortunate and inappropriate statements made by the referees designated for this match, made 24 hours before the final, cannot taint a sporting event of global significance that will be watched by hundreds of millions of people, and out of respect for all the fans who are planning to travel to Seville, and all those who are already in the Andalusian capital.

"Real Madrid believes that the values ​​of football must prevail, despite the hostility and animosity that have been manifested once again today against our club by the referees appointed for the final."

With all this going on in the background, Saturday's final may be the final match for manager Carlo Ancelotti, with reports suggesting he will be relieved of his duties after the final whistle.