Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been handed a two-game suspension after the Spanish football federation’s disciplinary committee upheld his red card in the 1-1 draw against Osasuna on February 15.
The England international will miss LaLiga fixtures against Girona and Real Betis, with Madrid planning to appeal the decision.
Bellingham was sent off in the 39th minute of the match at El Sadar, while Madrid was leading 1-0. The referee, José Luis Munuera Montero, reported that Bellingham had insulted him, allegedly saying, “f–k you.”
However, both Madrid and Bellingham contest this version, citing video footage that shows him saying, “I’m talking to you with respect,” followed by “f–k off.”
Following the match, Bellingham expressed his frustration, stating, “It’s clear that [the referee] made a mistake, there was a miscommunication. I remember the incident very well, but also I’ve seen the video. The video doesn’t match the [referee’s] report… I hope the footage will be reviewed.”
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Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti defended his player, suggesting that the referee had misunderstood the situation. “I think [the referee] didn’t understand English well. [Bellingham] said ‘f–k off,’ not ‘f–k you.’
[The referee] made a mistake… I don’t think it’s offensive. Bellingham didn’t do anything to get sent off today.”
In addition to the suspension, the Spanish federation also confirmed that it is reviewing reports suggesting potential conflicts of interest involving Munuera Montero, with media outlets claiming that a company linked to the referee has business ties with several football bodies and clubs. Munuera Montero has denied any wrongdoing.
