The Derby Referee: Candidates for Atlético - Real Madrid
The upcoming Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid already has a designated referee, although the name will be announced until next Thursday.
The Professional Football Designation Committee, made up of Luis Medina Cantalejo, Daudén Ibañez, and Evaristo Puentes Leira, met to choose the referee who will take charge of the match at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Among the most likely candidates are Gil Manzano, Hernández Hernández, and Soto Grado, all belonging to the UEFA ÉLITE group. Sánchez Martínez, another notable name, recently refereed Atlético de Madrid’s match against Villarreal, reducing his chances. Hernández Hernández, who refereed the Spanish Super Cup final, and Soto Grado, who is retiring at the end of the season, are the main options to officiate this key match.
