Arbeloa Responds to Laporta: "I Assume He Was Referring to the Negreira Case That Has Stained Spanish Football for Years"

T.E (Elbotola)

22 May 2026at11:18

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa indicated that he does not attach much importance to the statements made by Barcelona president Joan Laporta, following Laporta's recent response to Florentino Pérez's conference a few days ago.

Speaking to the media, Arbeloa said: "I don't attach much importance to Laporta's words. I believe we have always been clear about everything we've talked about, and I assume he is referring to the Negreira case."

He continued: "We are still awaiting a decision in such a serious case, which has stained Spanish football for many years. Even after the investigation was opened, some referees linked to that case are still officiating matches."

He concluded: "We still feel the same way when we see Real Madrid players being fouled without a penalty being awarded, and then the reward is that those same officials are appointed to referee the Copa del Rey final. These are abnormal things for us."

Laporta had previously stated in press remarks that Real Madrid was attempting to use Barcelona's name to cover up their failure to win any titles for two years.

Q&A

What was Álvaro Arbeloa's reaction to Joan Laporta's recent statements?

Álvaro Arbeloa dismissed Joan Laporta's remarks, stating he doesn't attach much importance to them. He suggested Laporta was likely referring to the Negreira case, which Arbeloa believes has significantly impacted Spanish football for years. He also noted ongoing issues with refereeing.

What is Arbeloa's perspective on the Negreira case and its implications for Spanish football?

Arbeloa believes the Negreira case is a very serious matter that has "stained Spanish football for many years." He highlighted that some referees linked to the investigation are still officiating matches, leading to "abnormal" situations like unawarded penalties against Real Madrid.

What does Arbeloa expect regarding the ongoing Negreira case?

Arbeloa indicated that a decision in the serious Negreira case is still pending, emphasizing its long-term impact on Spanish football. He expressed concern that referees connected to the case continue to officiate, causing frustration over perceived unfair decisions against his team.