According to a report by Barca Universal on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Barcelona presidential adviser Enric Masip has accused Real Madrid of attempting to tarnish the Catalan club’s reputation ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico.

Masip criticised Madrid’s handling of the Negreira case, claiming the Spanish giants were using the controversy to divert attention from their own problems. His comments have added further tension ahead of the highly anticipated clash between the two rivals.

Barcelona are set to host Real Madrid at the Spotify Camp Nou on October 25, with the rivalry increasingly extending beyond the pitch as figures associated with both clubs continue to exchange criticism.

Speaking about the ongoing dispute, Masip defended Barcelona and expressed frustration over what he described as an attempt to damage the club’s public image.

“Madrid are moving in a certain direction to cover up their own problems. They’re turning to Barça to divert attention,” he said.

“The aim is to tarnish Barça’s image. We feel offended because, in three and a half years, nothing has ever been proven.”

The Negreira case centres on payments made by Barcelona to companies linked to José María Enríquez Negreira, a former senior refereeing official in Spain. The payments have attracted significant scrutiny, although their existence alone does not prove that referees were bribed or matches manipulated.

Masip also questioned the way the allegations have been discussed publicly, insisting that accusations should not automatically be regarded as established facts.

The Barcelona adviser further criticised Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho over his public statements, suggesting that the Portuguese coach often uses his comments to take indirect shots at others.

While acknowledging Mourinho’s managerial abilities, Masip questioned his approach to public communication ahead of the Clasico.

Mourinho had earlier complained that Real Madrid would have 24 hours less rest than Barcelona before the encounter, adding another talking point to the build-up to Sunday’s meeting.

Masip contrasted Mourinho’s conduct with that of Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, praising the German coach for maintaining a respectful approach during press conferences, including when addressing situations he believes have been unfair to his team.

Despite his strong criticism of Real Madrid, Masip stressed that Barcelona’s players must avoid being distracted by the controversy and remain focused on their responsibilities on the pitch.

He believes the growing dispute could overshadow the football itself and draw unnecessary attention to issues outside the game.

Barcelona will now focus on Sunday’s encounter as they look to secure an important result in front of their home supporters. With league points and local pride at stake, Flick’s players will have the opportunity to respond on the pitch as tensions between the two Spanish giants continue to rise.