FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have often locked horns beyond just the field as well. Already two of the most fiercest rivals in world football, the two El Clasico teams are rarely ever away from controversy. However, this season, Barcelona has taken a public stance against some controversial matches for Los Blancos.
Especially after the game against Almeria, a lot of noise was created regarding Real Madrid’s victory. The controversial game saw Los Blancos take away all three points, but left a lot of other clubs frustrated. This included Barcelona, whose head coach Xavi Hernandez even made some public remarks about it.
However, as highlighted by SPORT, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has now responded to the words of his Barcelona counterpart:
“… (Xavi) has lowered himself to a level that is not for professionals… I consider myself a professional, and as a professional, I don’t want to stoop to this level out of respect for Spanish football. Don’t ask me more about this because I don’t want to descend to a level that is not for professionals.”
Even when asked about the complaints of Barcelona president Joan Laporta, the Real Madrid coach made a similar statement: “I won’t stoop to this level.”
At the moment, Real Madrid stay on top of the La Liga table with 57 points to their name. However, with many sides disappointed with the way in which they have gained several crucial points, there is currently a lot of pressure on Spanish football and especially the referees. Ultimately, only Girona remains in a place where they can actively challenge Los Blancos for the top spot.
As for Barcelona, they are already aware of the fact that Xavi will leave at the end of this season. Both the Spaniard and his Italian rival in Real Madrid have experienced some impressive games against one another, but this will be the final season that they do so it seems, both on and off the field.
