The La Liga championship race means only one thing - referees are under more pressure than ever, it's coming from all sides, and this is the time of the season when Real Madrid is leading the campaign.
The current Spanish champion has long been dissatisfied with the refereeing in the championship, especially after Jude Bellingham received a straight red card in a draw with Osasuna (1:1) eight days ago when he insulted (or cursed) the referee.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has called on all La Liga clubs to trust referees more.
"We have to trust them and I think the Football Association needs to show how strong it is. Referees are people and it is normal for them to make mistakes, just like coaches and players do," Flick said.
The German himself has had several conflicts with referees this season.
"I think we always look for excuses - if we lose we look at the referee and say it's his fault. But everyone makes mistakes. We have to protect them because we can't play without referees," the German pointed out.
Barcelona shares first place with Real Madrid, and on Saturday they play away to Las Palmas (21).
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