Luis Enrique Criticizes Referees After Loss to Malaga

Luis Enrique didn’t like the performance of the referees in Barcelona’s 2-0 loss to Malaga on Saturday.

The referees were certainly not kind to Barcelona this weekend. Despite that, Barca still should’ve defeated Malaga so that their title hopes would remain intact. However, its back to square one for the Catalans. A 2-0 defeat leaves them with no margin for error for the rest of the season. Neymar was sent off for two yellow cards and then applauded the fourth official on the way out. Nothing seemed to go Barca’s way for the entire match. Manager Luis Enrique criticized the performance of center referee Jesus Gil Manzano after the match.

“It was a clear penalty, I don’t know how he’s given it outside,” the manager said referring to Sergi Roberto getting fouled in the box. However, Manzano ruled it a free kick outside of the box. Barca players were enraged at the call and so was Lucho. Fans were certainly not happy with the call on Twitter voicing their displeasure.

Luis Enrique would go on to talk about how Neymar was sent off in the second half. The Brazilian picked up two yellow cards which led to his dismissal. Of course, the boss wasn’t happy with this either. In addition, Neymar clapped at the call to the fourth official after he was sent off. Surely, La Liga is going to review this red card.

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"“I think the interpretation of yellow cards is special. We have to take a lot care in these types of games because I think there were ugly challenges from behind which clearly deserved bookings; other things such as tying your boots… If we book people for this, we have to book people for everything. It’s curious that a team like us that doesn’t usually kick people get so many yellow cards in such an incomprehensible manner. Then there are players on the other team that during the game commit fouls and don’t get any cards. It’s curious, but we’re used to it.”Lucho On Neymar’s Dismissal"

Next: Barca Misses Chance against Malaga

Overall, the match wasn’t good and Barca still should’ve found a way to win the match. Malaga played very well and deserved the result. Barca hasn’t taken advantage of league leaders Real Madrid. They drew 1-1 with Atletico before Barca played their match. There have been countless chances for the Catalans and now they can’t lose another match. Of course, El Clasico is looming so if Barca wins, it would really help. We’ll see if Barca can make another comeback similar to the PSG match.