Barca Universal
·14 March 2025
Gavi weighs in on Atletico vs Real Madrid penalty controversy – ‘I would do this…’

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Yahoo sportsBarca Universal
·14 March 2025
There has been much controversy in Spain this week following Julian Alvarez’s controversial penalty and how it was disallowed by VAR as he had appeared to double-touch the ball.
The decision has caused quite a stir within the Atletico Madrid camp, who feel they have been betrayed by the association and VAR.
These tempers will still linger as Atletico Madrid lock horns with Barcelona this Sunday, in what promises to be a key clash in the context of the title race.
Speaking to the media ahead of the clash, Barcelona midfielder Gavi was notably asked about Julian Alvarez’s controversial penalty.
The youngster, though, remained rather diplomatic and did not really want to comment on whether or not it was the right decision.
Alvarez’s disallowed penalty has caused a stir in Spanish football (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
“I don’t want to get involved. The referees are the ones who decide and they have that rule. I don’t know how it works, but whatever the referee decides, we’ll have to trust it,” he said (h/t SPORT).
Usually known for his outspoken personality, it appears Gavi does not want to involve himself in the controversy that has erupted between the two Madrid clubs.
However, when asked what he would have done if he was in Alvarez’s shoes, Gavi said he would retake the penalty.
“I don’t know exactly how it goes, but I would do this: if he touches it twice, I would retake the penalty. But I don’t know, and let the referees decide,” he said.
It appears Gavi is implying that the referees should have at least allowed Alvarez to retake the penalties. However, the Argentine’s kick was directly disallowed, thus paving the way for Real Madrid secure a narrow win.
It will be interesting to see how Atletico Madrid react as they take on Barcelona this weekend.