Javier Tebas hits back at Nazi claim: "I never called anyone a Nazi"

Javier Tebas has addressed the storm surrounding his recent comments about Nazi Germany and Real Madrid's communication policy. Speaking to L'Equipe, the LaLiga president rejected any suggestion that he had insulted individuals and made it clear he expects to remain in charge of Spanish football.

• Tebas claims his Nazi Germany reference was about a communication strategy, not a personal attack.
• He says there is no chance the CSD will remove him from the LaLiga presidency.
• Rodri and Kylian Mbappé are the two names he highlights in the Ballon d'Or race.
• A Mbappé win, he argues, would be fully deserved given his impact on the league.

Tebas explains his Nazi Germany remarks

The LaLiga chief was unequivocal when asked about the controversy. "I never called anyone a Nazi, of course. I was talking about a communication strategy," he said. Tebas added that he does not understand why he is being held accountable for using a rhetorical device that Spanish and international politicians have also used in public debate.

From his perspective, the real discussion should not revolve around whether the communication itself is appropriate, but around the way the message is delivered. "The question of whether this communication is appropriate or not, that is what can be debated," he noted.

Possible CSD sanction and his future at LaLiga

Faced with the prospect of action from Spain's Higher Sports Council, Tebas appeared unfazed. He admitted that being removed from his position would be extraordinary, but dismissed the idea entirely: "It would be unheard of, but I believe being removed from my post is impossible."

I am not talking about substance, but about a way of communicating.

The president stressed that his intervention was limited to describing a communication style used by the Madrid club, not to passing judgment on anyone's ideology. The controversy has reignited the debate over the tone used by football executives in Spain.

Tebas reveals his Ballon d'Or favourite

The conversation also turned to the Ballon d'Or. Tebas knows exactly who he would like to see lift the trophy. "I would like Rodri to repeat the feat, but if Kylian wins it, I would not be upset," he admitted. The Manchester City midfielder claimed the award in 2024, and his continued excellence keeps him among the leading candidates.

Tebas was full of praise for Mbappé. He believes the Frenchman is enjoying an outstanding season and that his impact goes far beyond his goals. "It is very close. But if Mbappé wins it, I would not be surprised. I think it would be a deserved title. He is one of the best players in the world," he said.

Mbappé's value to LaLiga

Tebas highlighted Mbappé's importance not just for Real Madrid, but for the Spanish competition as a whole. He described him as "a global star, an immense player who contributes a great deal to his team and to the league in general." His words reinforce the idea that LaLiga sees the French forward as a strategic asset for the tournament's international profile.

Growing tension between LaLiga and Real Madrid

Tebas' comments come amid ongoing friction between the league and Real Madrid. The club has repeatedly voiced dissatisfaction over scheduling, revenue distribution and refereeing matters. Tebas' reference to Real Madrid's communication strategy fits into that simmering dispute.

The L'Equipe interview underlines the international reach of a controversy that extends well beyond Spanish borders. Mbappé's presence serves as a natural link between French and Spanish football, two markets Tebas knows well.