Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti Breaks Silence on Barcelona’s Negreira Bribery Charge

• La Liga powerhouse Barcelona recently had a bribery charge levelled against them
• The Catalan club were reported to have paid fees to the referee board in return for favourable decisions
• Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti has reacted to the charge levelled against the Catalan club

Amid Barcelona’s financial woes and on-field resurgence, a case that seems never to be going away soon is that of the vice president of the referee committee, Enriquez Negreira.

A case of bribery, which first broke in February of 2023, looks set to rumble on for some time following a Thursday morning report that a judge involved in the case has admitted to charges of bribery, which is regarded in Spain as paying a public official for influence in their duties.

As reported by Football Espana, Real Madrid’s manager Carlo Ancelotti was quizzed about the latest development in the ongoing scandal ahead of his side’s visit to Barcelona’s City rivals Girona, and the 64-year-old Italian didn’t hold back his thoughts.

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Ancelotti speaks on Barcelona’s Negreira charge

The former Chelsea manager was visibly displeased by the situation surrounding the Catalan club.

As quoted by Goal, he responded:

“I think that regarding this issue I am worried like everyone else. It is a very serious matter and the Justice department is already working on it. We have to let them work, and hopefully they can resolve the matter.”

Ancelotti’s statement appeared a direct contrast to the words of Barcelona’s coach Xavi Hernandez who, when asked about the rather unpleasant situation the club had found itself in, opted against making a definite comment.

There is little doubt Barcelona paid Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira over a period of 17 years a fee in the region of €8 million. However, what remains unclear is what the payment was meant for.

Barcelona receive update on Negreira case

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Barcelona possibly being vindicated with reports from the Spanish media claiming the Prosecutor’s Office has found no evidence of paying referees.

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Instead, the main suspicion appears to revolve around money laundering, which former club presidents, Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu could allegedly be involved in.

Furthermore, Barcelona were also informed UEFA had finished its investigation into the scandal and came to a conclusion, allowing them to participate in the Champions League.