Carlo Ancelotti suggests La Liga president Javier Tebas may have a vendetta against Real Madrid

Madrid has voiced frustration over recent officiating, particularly after losing points to Espanyol, Atletico Madrid, and Osasuna in consecutive La Liga matches. The club sent a formal complaint to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), alleging "manipulation and adulteration" of refereeing.

During a talk with Europa Press on Monday, Tebas expressed his displeasure with Real Madrid, saying he was "starting to feel ashamed" of being a fan, calling the club's complaints about officials a "conspiracy theory" and an "insult" to other teams.

Ancelotti fired back during a press conference before Madrid's Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad. "Tebas talks about Real Madrid too much," the Italian coach said. "Since I've been here, this has happened often. It's disrespectful to millions of Madrid fans. The president of La Liga should focus on resolving the issues in Spanish football."

Madrid has frequently criticized refereeing decisions on their TV channel, both before and after matches. Club president Florentino Perez has pushed for changes to the refereeing system, and RFEF president Rafael Louzan mentioned that Perez suggested the idea of bringing in English referees.

"I don't know what 'shame' Tebas feels," Ancelotti added. "I think all Madrid fans are proud to support this club."

On Tuesday, Tebas responded to Ancelotti's remarks, posting on X: "Carlo, it's a shame that they're using you for this, considering your experience."

Tebas directed his criticism at Ancelotti, stating: "Carlo, everyone knows that institutions reflect the actions and words of their leaders, especially in football. When I said that 'Real Madrid has become a club that cries a lot,' I was referring to the fact that it's the club's leaders who are promoting this victim and conspiratorial narrative."

Tebas continued, "It's strange, isn't it? This narrative is disrespectful to the competition and the clubs that have beaten you on the field, either through skill or luck. It's disrespectful to millions of fans."

He concluded by asserting, "I've been a Madrid fan since I was a child, and this narrative the club's management is pushing goes against the values we've always held."

Regarding team news, Ancelotti confirmed that Kylian Mbappe, despite having a molar removed, remained available for selection in the Copa del Rey. "Mbappe will travel tomorrow," Ancelotti said. "He had a tooth issue and couldn't train today, but he'll travel and anyone who travels has the chance to play."

The manager was also asked about young midfielder Arda Guler, 20, who has seen limited playing time recently, with just one appearance in Madrid's last seven games. Ancelotti addressed the situation, saying, "Any player with doubts can come to my office and talk to me. I've read about the 'Guler case,' but that hasn't reached me here. It's a problem every young player has gone through, like Rodrygo, Vinicius, and Valverde."

"I don't want a player to be happy when they don't play," he continued. "I want them to work and learn. It's normal. But I don't spend much time with Guler. He's often with others, and I'm not sure if they have the same approach I have. It's a communication issue."