Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos has publicly ridiculed the appointment of referee Juan Martínez Munuera for the upcoming Copa del Rey final between Mallorca and Athletic Bilbao on April 6, 2024.
The former Real Madrid left-back, known for his ferocious free-kicks, took to social media to mock the decision. He posted an old video clip showing Munuera struggling to place the ball correctly for a free-kick during a past match, accompanied by two crying-laughing emojis and the caption: “This referee for the Copa del Rey final… unbelievable.”
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) confirmed Munuera’s selection earlier this week. He will be assisted by Diego Barbero Sevilla and Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias, with César Soto Grado as the fourth official and Alejandro Muñiz Ruiz overseeing VAR.
Roberto Carlos’s criticism appears to stem from Munuera’s involvement in a controversial Real Madrid match earlier this season. On February 1, 2024, Munuera was the VAR official in a game against Almería where three key decisions went against Madrid, leading to widespread complaints from the club. Real Madrid even filed a formal complaint with the RFEF, requesting that Munuera not be assigned to their matches in the future.
While Munuera will not be officiating a Real Madrid match this time, his appointment for such a high-profile final has clearly struck a nerve with the club’s iconic former player. The reaction sets a tense backdrop for the season’s showpiece domestic cup final in Seville.
