Le Normand on Martin Red Card: "No Doubt They'd Send Me Off"

Atletico Madrid defender Robin Le Normand joined his teammate Juan Musso and manager Diego Simeone in expressing strong disagreement with the decision to revoke Gerard Martin's red card during their 2-1 defeat to Barcelona. The initial red card was downgraded to a yellow following a VAR review.

Following the match, Simeone had already stated there "wasn't much more to say," asserting the officials "got it wrong." Le Normand's comments echoed this sentiment, taking it a step further. He was responding to Hansi Flick's view that the incident did not warrant a red card.

"Of course he's going to say it's not a red card," Le Normand remarked, "but I think it's very clear for anyone who understands football and has played the game. If I were to make the same challenge, there's no doubt they would send me off. I don't know what happened, I just don't understand it."

Le Normand Expresses Disappointment with Refereeing

Regarding the referee's overall performance, Le Normand felt the official did not contribute positively to the game's atmosphere or flow.

"No, as you saw, today he didn't speak to anyone, not even the captain," Le Normand continued. "Whenever anyone attempted to communicate with him, he promptly showed a yellow card. In my opinion, his officiating only heightened the tension of the game. Everyone can make mistakes, and he certainly made one."

He also pointed out that in their previous encounter against Real Madrid, officiating "details" from Atletico's perspective similarly went against his side.

"Everyone is watching it [referring to decisions against Real Madrid], I'm not going to repeat myself, these are significant details that have a big impact," he concluded.

Anticipation Builds for Barcelona Champions League Clash

Looking ahead to their Champions League quarter-final clash against the Blaugrana on Wednesday, Le Normand shared his team's excitement.

"We always prepare with all the energy we possess, but there's no feeling of revenge. We must simply prepare to win the game," he clarified.

"We are very excited. While today's disappointment is clear, we will regroup. The truth is, we played with a lot of energy and showcased good football."

Although Barcelona will undoubtedly be considered favorites for the tie, Le Normand believes Atletico is competing on a level playing field.

"We've demonstrated in both the Copa del Rey and La Liga that we are contenders, showing immense desire, energy, and talent. We are greatly looking forward to Wednesday's challenge."