‘They have been unfair’: Barca star slams Real Madrid after Copa del Rey victory

Barcelona secured an historical 3-2 victory over Real Madrid to lift the 2024/25 Copa del Rey title and the match was full of controversies on and off the pitch.

Following the match, Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez made it clear that he wanted to send a message to Real Madrid. The Spain international did not hold back when asked about Madrid’s recent accusations regarding refereeing decisions leading up to the match.

Martinez expressed his frustration, saying, “They have been very unfair. We all make mistakes. We can be better or worse. But Real Madrid has not been at the level expected of such a prestigious club. That’s just my opinion.”

Iñigo Martinez celebrates with the trophy after winning the Copa del Rey Final match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

In what was a surprising move, Real Madrid cancelled all activities, including training and official dinners, following a press conference in which referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea broke down in tears.

This incident happened a day before the final but Martinez was pleased with Burgos Bengoechea and congratulated him for his work.

“I have congratulated him for the great job he’s done, and I hope others do the same. It’s tough to be in his position, with all the attention and criticism. Football has won today, and that’s what matters,” he said.

Martinez also praised the professionalism of the referee, noting how difficult it is to perform under such scrutiny.

“I know it’s going to be a complicated situation with all the noise around it,” he added.

“But I’m happy for Richi. He’s a great guy, and his professionalism has never faltered. We all make mistakes, but he handled it with a level of class that we should all aspire to.”