Javier Tebas spoke to the media, just a day before the much-awaited El Clasico at Santiago Bernabeu.
This will perhaps be one of the more evenly-matched Clasicos in recent years, with many labelling Barcelona as a potential favourite heading into this encounter.
Speaking ahead of the game, Tebas touched upon many subjects, including the game itself as well as Real Madrid’s decision to share another clip of refereeing mistakes in El Clasicos.
Tebas on Real Madrid clip
Real Madrid TV, as is the custom now, has shared a clip showcasing some of the refereeing mistakes that were made in the past in the history of El Clasico.
Tebas, though, condemned the move, stating (h/t Mundo Deportivo), “I didn’t watch it, but if it’s like the previous clips it’s not fair play and does not represent the values of Real Madrid. The club lost its chivalry a long time ago.”
Real Madrid’s actions are certain to raise the animosity between the two clubs, but Tebas is vouching for a Clasico without violence.
“We want a Clasico without hatred, violence or insults. We hope that tomorrow’s match will be peaceful and we can enjoy it,” he said.
Tebas on El Clasico outcome
Tebas was asked to comment on the potential winner of this Clasico. In response, the La Liga president labelled Real Madrid as a favourite but acknowledged Barcelona’s sensational form under Hansi Flick.
“I think Barcelona are in a great moment but with Real Madrid’s DNA anything can happen. If it’s a sporting moment it gives the feeling that Barcelona are the favourites but if it’s a Clasico throughout history then the favourites are Real Madrid,” he said.
“What we saw in the second half against Dortmund gives you that feeling that Real are capable of winning,” he added.
Tebas on La Liga in USA
Spanish football’s efforts to globalise the league have been well-documented and one of their key efforts is to hold La Liga matches in the United States.
However, despite support from FIFA, nothing has come to fruition just yet. Tebas, though, hopes it will be resolved sooner rather than later.
When asked about the possibility of witnessing La Liga matches in the USA, Tebas said, “I don’t know, I hope so but I don’t know. I hope it will be this season. We will see because it does not depend on us, it depends on other circumstances.”
“It is true that FIFA has authorized an official match of the Spanish League to be held in America and it must be honoured and we hope that it will be honoured,” he concluded.