According to Sport, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is attempting to revive the Negreira case amid the Premier League's investigation into Manchester City over 114 alleged financial breaches. This stems from Barcelona's sporting dominance over the past two years and Joan Laporta's break with the Super League, which has troubled Real Madrid.

Less than two years ago, during a Real Madrid member meeting, Florentino Pérez downplayed the Negreira case, telling members that a strong Barcelona was important and both clubs should cooperate on certain matters. Clearly, the shared interests of the Super League, as proposed by Florentino Pérez, were the underlying motivation. This occurred on November 24, 2024. Florentino told members: "Barcelona and Real Madrid must help each other, and I say this sincerely. We must remember that these are among the biggest clubs in the world. Why should we be angry? It couldn't be clearer." That was less than two years ago.

What has changed in such a short time? Much, almost everything. First, it is clear that Laporta's complete break with the Super League shocked Florentino. In a short time, this proved to be one of the best decisions Barcelona's current president could have made during his tenure. The results speak for themselves—and they are not bad; quite the opposite. He didn't need that traveling companion. He finally realized it.

Two league titles won since then have left Real Madrid without a title that season; Barcelona's clear dominance in head-to-head meetings; their greater representation in Spain's national team; and the emergence of a new "Messi"—Lamine Yamal—who seems destined to fuel Real Madrid's nightmares for years to come. This is a project built on an extraordinary and sustainable youth academy and a spectacular new stadium already taking shape, which will host the Champions League final in 2029 and is nearly complete. Meanwhile, Real Madrid's sporting project lacks clear direction, has failed to reignite fan passion, and, worse still, shows no prospect of change in the near future—let alone bringing Mourinho back to the bench.

Now, with the Premier League set to rule on Manchester City's 114 alleged financial breaches, and amid various controversies swirling around, Real Madrid wants to capitalize on this moment to turn the Negreira case into their own battle—an issue they previously downplayed for far too long.

I do not defend the payments made to Enrique Negreira, the former deputy chairman of the Referees Committee. I condemn these payments and consider them a serious institutional error that inexplicably continued for so long. However, linking these payments to match-fixing is entirely different—a completely separate matter that remains unproven and lacks evidence.

UEFA has remained consistent so far and has not acted hastily. Although the case has been in court since 2023, UEFA is waiting to see if a ruling will emerge. Even Laporta's recent approach to Ceferin has rewarded Barcelona handsomely with hosting the Champions League final once their new Camp Nou is complete. This is no small matter.

But what matters most is the outcome and sentiment—the sporting spirit of Barcelona's fans. I fear we must grow accustomed to such situations and attacks, which will intensify as the season winds down and hopes are gradually realized. The further Barcelona advances, the louder the noise will become.

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