Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos takes aim at Barcelona star over response to refereeing controversy: ‘They are afraid’

Barcelona are preparing for a difficult away game in Turkey, where they will face Galatasaray in the Champions League.

Ahead of the game, Pau Cubarsi and Hansi Flick appeared before the media, and the Spain teenager was asked about the refereeing controversy going on in La Liga.

Cubarsi’s response remained measured, with the Barça defender choosing to put the focus on the football instead.

Now, Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has hit out at Cubarsi and criticised his reluctance to speak publicly about the controversial decisions.

Roberto Carlos questions players’ silence

As quoted by laSexta Deportes, the former Madrid left-back, who currently serves as a club ambassador, appeared to take aim at Cubarsi and other players who remain silent.

“Professional players are not united. They are afraid to speak,” he said.

The remarks were presented as a response to Cubarsi, who refused to get dragged in following Madrid’s complaints about La Liga‘s referees.

“I don’t focus on that issue, but on what I can do something about, which is my club, what we can give to our people,” Cubarsi explained.

Madrid have been making a lot of noise in the media about so-called controversial decisions following the Madrid derby and their game against Villarreal.

While Real Madrid had a case to make against Atletico, the red card that Vinicius received against the Yellow Submarine was not debatable.

Cubarsi right to focus on Barcelona

There is an important distinction between refusing to discuss refereeing and being afraid to express an opinion.

Cubarsi did not claim that refereeing decisions were beyond criticism. He simply explained that his priority was contributing to Barcelona.

Barça are enjoying an outstanding start to the season, and Cubarsi has far more immediate responsibilities than responding to Madrid’s complaints.

Pau Cubarsi is right to keep his focus on the football. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

His role in organising the defensive line, progressing possession and supporting Flick’s aggressive playing style takes enough out of him already.

Publicly discussing controversies involving their arch-rivals would do little to help him in any of those areas.

Barcelona should not be dragged into Madrid’s refereeing debate

Roberto Carlos is entitled to believe that footballers should speak more openly about refereeing standards.

Greater transparency and consistent decision-making would benefit every club, including Barcelona.

However, expecting Cubarsi to comment on Madrid’s grievances is not fair and is uncalled for in the grand scheme of things.

With important Champions League fixtures and the upcoming Clasico demanding attention, Flick will need his players concentrating on their performances.

It remains to be seen whether this refereeing controversy hangs over the two Spanish giants when they face each other in a few weeks’ time.