Ongoing Investigation into Barcelona’s Payments to Referee Consultant

omidbasir- The recent resurgence of the Negreira case has captured public attention once again. FC Barcelona was found to have made payments totaling €8.4 million (£7 million / $10 million) to Jose María Enríquez Negreira, the former vice president of the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) within the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), from 2001 to 2018.

Barcelona asserts that they engaged Negreira as an external consultant to provide technical reports on refereeing. Negreira himself has denied any allegations of having been compensated to influence decisions in competitive matches. While a Spanish court dismissed bribery charges in May 2024, the investigation continues under the framework of sports corruption.

Álvaro Arbeloa, recently appointed as coach at Real Madrid following Xabi Alonso’s departure, was prompted to share his thoughts on the situation. Given his affiliation with the Blancos, the former Spain international was critical in his assessment.

He remarked to reporters, “In relation to the Negreira case, it’s unfathomable that, to this day, the largest scandal in Spanish football remains unresolved. This should be a significant concern for many.”

In the midst of this controversy, Arbeloa is determined to prevent off-field issues from distracting Real Madrid as they pursue Barcelona in a competitive La Liga title race. Despite experiencing some unexpected defeats against Albacete and Benfica, he has successfully led the team to three consecutive victories in La Liga.

Commenting on the challenges ahead of their match against Valencia this Sunday, Arbeloa stated, “Great teams must excel in multiple areas to secure victories. We cannot rely solely on one skill; we must perform well across various aspects simultaneously, developing team automatisms and unified thinking. This level of coherence can only be achieved through diligent practice and commitment.”

He added, “The players have maintained a commendable attitude, showcasing the desire and ambition necessary to meet our goals. Tomorrow poses a complicated challenge, and we have focused this week on enhancing all facets of our game. We remain far from reaching our full potential.”

Real Madrid will face added challenges with the loss of England international Jude Bellingham, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Additionally, Rodrygo is currently serving a suspension following a red card received during a disappointing 4-2 defeat to Benfica in Lisbon, where an opposition goalkeeper scored a last-minute header.

Rodrygo has publicly apologized for his actions, and Arbeloa considers that matter settled. He remarked, “He has issued a statement of regret. He acknowledges his mistake, and now our focus should be on his rehabilitation so that he can return in prime condition to contribute to the team.”

Looking ahead, Real Madrid is preparing for a swift rematch against Benfica in continental competition. After failing to secure a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the Champions League’s knockout stage, they are set to face José Mourinho’s side again in the playoff round. The first leg of this matchup is scheduled for February 17, with Arbeloa’s team having two domestic fixtures to navigate beforehand—first against Valencia at Mestalla, followed by a home match against Real Sociedad on February 14. Real Madrid remains within striking distance of Barcelona at the top of the La Liga table.