Barcelona fell 2‑1 to Real Sociedad at Anoeta, ending an 11‑game winning run that had kept them a point clear of Real Madrid. Captain Frenkie de Jong blasted referee Jesús Gil Manzano for an alleged arrogant attitude and questionable offside decisions that cost the Catalans a goal today.

The match saw Barcelona miss a Lamine Yamal strike ruled offside, sparking de Jong’s frustration. He also complained that the nine minutes of added time were added too early, claiming the referee ignored the time taken for throw‑ins and goal kicks today and the match was tight overall.

Hansi Flick, who rarely criticises officials, backed de Jong’s remarks, calling the referee’s conduct unacceptable. He praised the team’s resilience, noting that despite the loss, Barcelona’s style of play remained strong and that the squad must focus on the upcoming Champions League clash against Slavia Prague next week.

The defeat narrows Barcelona’s lead over Real Madrid to a single point, tightening the title race. With the season’s final stretch approaching, scrutiny of refereeing decisions will intensify, and the club will need to address defensive lapses highlighted by the loss. Fans and pundits alike will watch closely as the campaign concludes.