The referee José Luis Munuera Montero broke his silence on El Partidazo de COPE to clarify the accusations linking him to businesses related to Atlético de Madrid. In a forceful interview, the Andalusian referee defended himself against the slander and made it clear that he has never received money from any sports entity. He also defended himself after numerous criticisms and even harassment following "allegedly harming Real Madrid".
Munuera Denies Any Link to Atlético de Madrid
The controversy arose from the company Talentus Sports, a company created by Munuera Montero dedicated to sports consulting and management. However, the referee made it clear that his professional activity outside of refereeing has no relation to soccer clubs, including Atlético de Madrid.
"In my life, no sports entity has ever paid me a penny, never, ever. Tomorrow I will send the RFEF the invoices for the conferences I have given. Zero euros, zero links with any entity," Munuera stated, flatly rejecting any irregularity.
An Attack That Went Beyond Sports
Beyond the controversy, Munuera Montero expressed his indignation at the impact the accusations have had on his personal environment. The referee denounced the harassment his family and loved ones have suffered, pointing out that these types of situations are creating an unsustainable climate in the world of soccer.
"My 80-year-old father went to mass today and... I'd better keep quiet. What are we creating? How can we show in a newspaper the atrocities we are saying? Are we crazy?" he expressed visibly upset.
What Does His Company Really Do?
One of the key points in the controversy is the activity of Talentus Sports. Munuera explained that the company was created with the aim of conveying the values of refereeing to young athletes through conferences and programs.
"I have been giving conferences for many years. As an extra service, and free of charge, we offer information about job opportunities in the sports world, but without any economic ties or contact with clubs."
Refereeing in the Spotlight
The controversy arises at a time when Spanish refereeing is experiencing a tense climate. Munuera Montero reminded that referees are also professionals who seek the best for soccer, but they will continue to make mistakes because they are human. "If people thought that with VAR the mistakes would end, they were wrong. As long as we are human, we will continue to make mistakes," he stated.