Mourinho Criticizes Refereeing After Real Madrid Falls 2-1 to Atlético Madrid

Real Madrid dropped to fourth in LaLiga following a 2-1 derby loss to Atlético Madrid where Dean Huijsen was sent off.

Atlético Madrid defeated Real Madrid 2-1 at the Metropolitano behind a second-half penalty from Alejandro Grimaldo and a goal by Jonathan David. Real Madrid played with 10 men after defender Dean Huijsen was sent off for a foul on Giuliano Simeone. Antonio Rüdiger scored a late goal for the visitors, but the result left Madrid in fourth place in the LaLiga table, six points behind leaders Barcelona after seven matches.

Following the match, José Mourinho criticized referee Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias and VAR Daniel Trujillo Suárez, presenting printed photos of two first-half incidents to the media. Mourinho argued that Atlético should have received two red cards: one for Cristian Romero treading on Jude Bellingham’s knee, and another for Lee Kang-in’s challenge on Federico Valverde. Real Madrid reported that Valverde sustained severe trauma to his left ankle during the tackle by Lee.

Mourinho questioned the appointment of Ortiz Arias, noting the 41-year-old official lacked international experience and claiming he could not handle the pressure of the derby. The manager also cited recent officiating decisions involving Barcelona and Real Sociedad as evidence of an uneven playing field. Atlético coach Diego Simeone declined to comment on the specific officiating incidents, stating that managers must remain respectful of others' opinions.