Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been punished a two-match ban after his fiery protest at the referee in a game in La Liga last played. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) acted after Bellingham challenged referee Jose Munuera Montero on a contentious call. While Real Madrid suffers from his absence, too since delivering Bellingham’s red card the RFEF has also severely criticized the abuse pointed at Montero. Highlighting the necessity of respect towards match officials, the federation underlined its opposition to misconduct and guaranteed fair play remains a top priority in Spanish football.
Bellingham’s Suspension: Controversy Over Alleged Referee Insult
Real Madrid’s Bellingham has been given a two-match suspension for reportedly insulting referee Jose Munuera Montero during his side’s 1-1 La Liga tie against Osasuna. Montero thought he had aimed foul language at the 21-year-old midfielder, who was then presented a red card. Still, Bellingham and Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti both argued the referee erred. Notwithstanding their assertions, the RFEF Disciplinary Committee rejected them on grounds of “attitudes of disdain or lack of regard toward referees,” which justified the suspension.
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Real Madrid Appeals Bellingham Ban Amid Growing Refereeing Dispute
Real Madrid wishes Bellingham to be eligible for important La Liga games against Girona and Betis, so the two-match ban is appealed. The event has stirred Spanish media discussion about the translation of English profanity and has raised tensions between Real Madrid and Spanish football authorities. Citing many unjust rulings, the club has also filed a protest against referees from LaLiga. The RFEF, meanwhile, denounced the abuse Jose Munuera Montero received after Bellingham’s red card and stressed the need of guarding match officials from it.
