Bellingham Faces Two-Match Suspension After Controversial Red Card

MADRID, Spain — Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been handed a two-match suspension following his red card during last Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Osasuna. The suspension was confirmed by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) in response to allegations of abusive language directed towards the referee.

Bellingham received his marching orders in the 36th minute after the referee interpreted his words as offensive. Madrid took the lead in the first half with an early goal from Kylian Mbappé but was forced to settle for a draw after Osasuna equalized from a penalty in the second half.

Post-match, Bellingham maintained his innocence, insisting he did not intend to insult anyone. “It’s clear that a mistake has been made; there has been a communication error,” he stated in the mixed zone. “I don’t want to say what I said again, but it’s more like ‘joder’ (a Spanish phrase meaning ‘f*ck’). I hope the Federation takes this into account.”

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti echoed Bellingham’s claims, stating in the press conference, “The red card. I don’t think he understood him well. Jude told him to ‘f*ck off,’ not ‘f*ck you.’”

While a more severe suspension of up to 12 matches was feared, the RFEF disciplinary committee deemed that Bellingham exhibited “attitudes of contempt” toward referees, resulting in the two-match ban.

The midfielder will miss crucial La Liga matches against Girona and Real Betis, which could significantly impact Madrid’s title race. Currently trailing FC Barcelona by points, Madrid is under pressure to appeal the suspension to reinstate Bellingham as they contend for the top spot.

As Madrid prepares for a Champions League clash against Manchester City, Bellingham remains eligible to participate in that match, along with the upcoming Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad, raising hopes for his quick return to the pitch.

The controversy surrounding Bellingham’s red card has ignited a national debate in Spain regarding the language used by players during matches and the referee’s interpretation of such exchanges. The outcome of this situation continues to resonate within the sphere of Spanish football, as Real Madrid seeks a swift resolution.