Spanish Football Authority designates a new official for El Clásico; Mateus Laos is no longer involved.
In the upcoming El Clásico, scheduled for this Saturday, Jesús Gil Manzano will take charge as the main referee, marking his first El Clásico without Mateu Lahoz. However, this appointment has stirred discontent in Barcelona's camp, not due to the referee's record in officiating El Clásicos or his perceived bias towards Real Madrid, but rather his refereeing style.
Gil Manzano's style is perceived to allow more physical play, which some believe might not benefit Barcelona's attack. This discontent was recently expressed by Catalan media outlets.
Despite the discontent, it's important to note that Gil Manzano has awarded penalties against Real Madrid in his officiated matches this season. In fact, he holds an absolute record this season by awarding three penalties against Real Madrid in a single match against Valencia.
Mateu Lahoz, on the other hand, has a different officiating record for Real Madrid, favoring them in previous matches. Lahoz will not officiate the upcoming El Clásico due to a muscle injury. Over his career, Lahoz has officiated five El Clásicos before, with Real Madrid having a better record under his whistle: +3=1-1.
Jesús Gil Manzano has been the main referee in at least two Real Madrid matches this 2025–26 season: Real Sociedad vs. Real Madrid on September 13, 2025, won by Real Madrid 2-1, and Real Madrid vs. Espanyol on September 20, 2025, won by Real Madrid 2-0. Both matches awarded Real Madrid 3 points.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has appointed Gil Manzano as the main referee for the El Clásico, a decision that has sparked debate among football fans. The match promises to be an exciting one, with both teams eager to secure a victory.
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