Real Madrid Confidencial Medina Cantalejo Reveals Why He Has Chosen de Burgos for the Copa Final
The president of the CTA had the appointment clear from the start of the competition and it's a 'reward' for his experience
Luis Medina Cantalejo has spoken. The President of the Technical Committee of Referees has explained why Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea will be the referee for the Copa del Rey final.
He did so in an interview given to the newspaper Marca. He made it clear that there is no controversy or second options.
"Not the Second Choice"
"Ricardo is a well-established referee," stated Medina Cantalejo.
"He is international. He has a lot of empathy on the field. He gets a lot of flak for everything he says, even when he's not asked."
The official acknowledged that he has been working with him for sixteen years.
"He has many good qualities. This Cup was his from the start. We sought a referee with background and experience."
He was firm about the rumors: "Last year's final was also for him.But since Real Sociedad was in the semifinals, César Soto was chosen."
Regarding that change, he wanted to settle the debate: "Saying it was due to a disagreement or lack of harmony with me is a lie. Whoever published it has lied."
Peace with Real Madrid
Medina Cantalejo also addressed the relationship with Real Madrid. After several months of tension, he left the door open for understanding.
"Meanwhile, the desire to return to normalcy is total," he assured.
"If there's a meeting tomorrow, I'll fix everything in five minutes. I'll sign anything. I'll shake hands with anyone."
Even so, he acknowledged that not everything depends on him. "These referees are young. They are portrayed as devils when they are not. Neither are we."
Regarding self-criticism, Medina was clear. "When there is a questionable play and they ask us what happened, we respond: 'He made a mistake.' And that doesn't prevent it from happening again."
The President of the CTA defends the work of his group. He believes that a new generation of referees with values is being built.
He wanted to recall that the only match he refereed after retiring was at the Bernabéu, in a Real Madrid - Inter. "Without any problem," he pointed out.
All Set for the Final
With his statements, Medina settles any doubts. De Burgos Bengoetxea is not an emergency solution. He was the chosen one from the beginning.
Now, all eyes are on the Copa final. Also on the Basque referee, who will be a protagonist.
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