According to ESPN Soccer, Kylian Mbappé has chosen not to criticise the referee in charge of Real Madrid's 2-1 derby defeat to Atlético Madrid. This decision comes despite Madrid coach José Mourinho claiming that Ortiz Arias failed to show "two clear red cards" for rough, first-half challenges by Kang-in Lee and Cristian Romero. Mbappé stated that he does not usually comment on referees, and prefers to keep his thoughts to himself. The result of the match left Real Madrid six points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona with just seven games played going into the international break.