It's no secret that Javier Tebas, president of LaLiga, feels a great deal of sympathy for Real Madrid. Although he tries to keep a certain neutrality, on several occasions he has let that preference show. Every time it happens, indignation grows in a large part of Spanish soccer.
Over the years, different entities have expressed their discomfort with Tebas's decisions. Barça is, without a doubt, the main victim of his strictest policies. The famous "financial fair play" became a real headache for the Catalan club.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, has had a softer relationship with Tebas. There have been occasional clashes, but nothing comparable to the confrontations experienced by the blaugranas. However, now a new affected party appears on the horizon: Atlético.
The classic and the decision that surprises everyone
Atlético-Real Madrid is one of the most desired matchups of every season. Not only because of the rivalry, but also because of what it means for the standings. This time, however, the controversy has nothing to do with the field.
Sources close to LaLiga confirm that Tebas has intervened directly in the organization of the match. He has done so by taking a measure that has sparked a lot of criticism. Everything suggests that the move clearly favors Los Blancos.
The match is scheduled for September 27 at the Metropolitano Stadium. What's striking is that the president decided to change an essential detail of the clash.
Real Madrid, a schedule shaped by Tebas
Real Madrid faces a very demanding trip after the classic. Just a few days later, it will have to fly to Kazakhstan. There, it will play a European match against Kairat Almaty, after a journey of more than nine hours.
Aware of that situation, Javier Tebas has taken action. To the surprise of many, the league match has been scheduled at a very specific time. The president argues that the decision aims to "protect the competitiveness" of the Spanish representative.
Finally, the classic will be played at 4:15 p.m. This time slot will allow Real Madrid to gain time and prepare for its long international trip.
Atlético, the fans and the ongoing controversy over the classic
Atlético clearly feels harmed by this measure. They believe that the schedule breaks the sporting equality that should prevail in LaLiga. The red-and-white fans have also wasted no time in showing their discontent.
The complaints are multiplying because many supporters saw the match as a nighttime event with a great atmosphere. Moving it earlier makes it less attractive and makes it harder for some fans to attend. From their perspective, the balance once again tips toward Real Madrid.
The truth is that the controversy is on. Javier Tebas, once again, has managed to place himself at the center of the debate. The Madrid classic, far from being just a match, already has a context marked by controversy.