Real Madrid comes up against Espanyol in La Liga this weekend. It is a big game for Real Madrid, just like every game is in their bid to reclaim the Liga trophy from arch rivals Barcelona.
Unfortunately, Real Madrid will have to do it not only against 19 other teams, but also against any referee who stands in their way. The standard of Spanish officiating only seems to be getting worse, not better. If these are the cards Real Madrid are dealt (ba dum tss), then so be it.
Regardless of the silly red cards shown to Real Madrid, for matters which don't warrant suspensions or sanctions, Real Madrid still receive penalties in their favor. This has always been a byproduct of the way Real Madrid plays, and it is nothing new.
Due to this benefitting Real Madrid, it naturally comes at the expense of their opposition. So, plenty of hostility is directed toward Real Madrid.
Espanyol captain shuts down this ridiculous question about Real Madrid
In the buildup to Real Madrid vs Espanyol, the travelling captain Javi Puado refused to give the reporters what they clearly wanted - Real Madrid hate.
Puado was asked about his thoughts on Real Madrid receiving many penalties. It was a loaded question, and one that was intended to send the player in one direction. He, respectfully, took the other direction.
In his own words, Javi Puado said (translated to English): "Real players are very good and often end up in the box. It’s normal that penalties are given for players like that."
Real Madrid fans will love this reasoned response by the opposition's captain, and it shows that not everybody is out to get them.
Puado is a player of the game, unlike many reporters, so he understands that if you put yourself in dangerous positions, you have a greater chance of inflicting danger.
It really does seem silly to say but if you're in the penalty box a lot, you will receive many penalties. That's like saying you will get wet if you go in the ocean.