Álvaro Arbeloa, the coach of Real Madrid, expressed his frustration towards the ongoing Negreira case regarding FC Barcelona, labeling it as one of the most significant scandals in the history of Spanish football. During a press conference before his team's match against Valencia, Arbeloa emphasized the puzzling nature of the case still being unresolved, suggesting that it should be a serious concern for many within the football community. He stated, 'In relation to the Negreira case, I think no one understands why this remains the biggest scandal in Spanish football without a resolution.'

The controversy involves accusations against Barcelona of financial malpractice relating to payments made to former referee José María Negreira. Real Madrid's management has shown a proactive approach by requesting that the supervising judge of the case review all relevant audits and financial reports concerning Barcelona, along with criminal investigations conducted between 2003 and 2021. However, this request has been met with refusal from the judge overseeing the matter, further complicating the dynamics between the two clubs.

In response to Real Madrid’s stance, Barcelona’s president Joan Laporta criticized the involvement of Real Madrid in what he termed an inappropriate manner. Laporta expressed satisfaction with the judge's rejection of Real Madrid’s requests, implying that the situation is being manipulated. This ongoing dispute not only highlights longstanding rivalries between the clubs but also casts a shadow over the integrity of Spanish football, raising questions that many stakeholders must address as the legal proceedings unfold.