Real Madrid boss brands Barcelona Negreira case ‘biggest scandal’ in Spanish football

Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa has launched attack on Barcelona, describing the ongoing Negreira case as the “biggest scandal in the history of Spanish football” and criticising the lack of a definitive resolution.

Barcelona remain under investigation over payments made to José María Enríquez Negreira, the former vice-president of the Spanish FA’s Technical Committee of Referees, between 2001 and 2018.

Barcelona admit contacts with Negreira

The Catalan club have acknowledged paying around €8.4 million to Negreira but insist the arrangement was for refereeing consultancy services. Negreira has also denied influencing match officials.

Although bribery charges were dropped by a Spanish court in May 2024, the case continues under allegations of sports corruption, with no final ruling reached.

Speaking to reporters, Arbeloa expressed frustration at the prolonged nature of the investigation.

“Regarding the Negreira case, I think nobody understands that, to this day, the biggest scandal in the history of Spanish football is still unresolved,” he said. “That, for me, is what should concern a lot of people.”

Arbeloa weighs Real Madrid La Liga form ahead of Sunday clash

Arbeloa, who recently took charge at the Santiago Bernabéu following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, was keen to keep the focus on football matters as Real Madrid continue their La Liga title pursuit.

Despite suffering defeats against Albacete and Benfica, he has guided the team to three consecutive league wins.

Looking ahead to Sunday’s clash with Valencia, Arbeloa stressed the need for sustained improvement. “Great teams have to do many things well to win. You can’t master just one aspect,” he said.

“That only comes through work and time. The players still have the same ambition and desire, but we are far from our ceiling.”

Real Madrid trail Barcelona in the title race but remain well in contention as the season enters a decisive phase.