Barcelona has confirmed that its legal department is carefully examining the accusations made by Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez during a lengthy emergency press conference held on Tuesday afternoon, May 12. The move comes just two days after Real Madrid suffered a 2-0 defeat in the final El Clásico of the season, a loss that effectively ended their campaign on a disastrous note.
Perez's Press Conference
During a bizarre, hour-long tirade, Pérez announced new club elections, attacked members of the media, and condemned both La Liga and Barcelona for alleged corruption. Most notably, he doubled down on accusations regarding the Negreira case, alleging that Barcelona bribed José María Enríquez Negreira, the former vice president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation's refereeing committee.
Barcelona's Response
Barcelona, currently celebrating their La Liga title, issued a swift response to the claims. The club stated, "Regarding the press conference held by the Real Madrid president, Florentino Pérez, we inform that our legal department are carefully examining his declarations and accusations. They are currently being analyzed and the steps to be taken are being assessed. When considered opportune, any positions and decisions that have been adopted will be notified."
Further Tensions
While Pérez remained silent on rumors regarding the potential return of José Mourinho to the Bernabéu, the press conference has further intensified the hostile relationship between him and Barcelona president Joan Laporta. The legal threat marks the latest chapter in the ongoing Negreira saga, which continues to overshadow the sporting rivalry between Spain's two biggest clubs.
