Copa del Rey final: Real Madrid vs Barcelona – Los Blancos boycott build-up

Real Madrid avoided pre-Copa del Rey activities after their match referee criticized the club’s TV channel during a press conference, reportedly viewing it as hostile behavior and skipping key events like media briefings and photo calls. The Spanish champions expressed dissatisfaction with what they saw as unfair criticism from referees, while Barcelona manager Hansi Flick emphasized the importance of protecting referees amid high-pressure games. Both teams are focused on performing well in the Copa del Rey ahead of their next competition after a challenging La Liga campaign.