Barcelona consider formal complaint after refereeing controversy against Atletico Madrid | OneFootball

Barcelona are preparing a strong response after the controversial refereeing decisions in their heavy 0-4 defeat to Atletico Madrid. 

According to a recent report from Mundo Deportivo, the club are now considering filing an official complaint with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

The outlet mentions that the frustration has been building since the final whistle. 

This is because several decisions made by referee Martínez Munuera during the match have raised serious concerns within the club, especially given the importance of the Copa del Rey semi-final.

While Barcelona were already hurt by the scoreline, the officiating only added to the anger. 

In fact, club officials believe some key calls went against them, and they feel the overall handling of the match lacked consistency.

Certain instances

One of the biggest talking points was the challenge by Giuliano Simeone on Alejandro Balde in the second half. 

Many inside the club expected a red card for the foul, but the referee chose not to take that step. That decision has been a major source of frustration for the Barcelona hierarchy.

Barcelona are not happy with the refereeing decisions. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Another incident that caused widespread disbelief was the long VAR review of Pau Cubarsi’s disallowed goal. 

The process took around six and a half minutes, leaving everyone waiting without any clear communication.

Furthermore, there was particular anger over the use of the semi-automatic offside system. 

No communication

Barcelona were shocked that such a long delay occurred, and even more surprised that the technology did not seem to provide a quick and clear answer.

Manager Hansi Flick also found himself in the dark during the review. While the match was paused, he received no explanation from the officials on the touchline, which only increased the frustration.

All these incidents combined have pushed Barcelona to consider a formal complaint. 

The club believe the decisions and the handling of the VAR review had a major impact on the match, and that certainly cannot be ignored.