Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been suspended for two LaLiga matches after allegedly directing abusive language at referee Jose Munuera Montero during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Osasuna.
The 21-year-old England international was shown a straight red card late in the first half, with Montero believing Bellingham had insulted him. Both Bellingham and head coach Carlo Ancelotti insisted the referee had made a mistake, but the Spanish Football Association (RFEF) disciplinary committee upheld the decision.
Reason for Suspension & Real Madrid’s Response
On Wednesday, the RFEF stated that Bellingham’s suspension was imposed to combat “attitudes of contempt or lack of consideration towards referees.”
Madrid, however, strongly disagrees with the ruling and has confirmed they will appeal in an attempt to have Bellingham available for their upcoming LaLiga fixtures against Girona and Real Betis.
This incident has further fueled tensions between Real Madrid, the RFEF, and LaLiga, with Los Blancos recently accusing the league of making “rigged decisions” in an official letter of complaint.
The RFEF responded on Tuesday, condemning the harassment and abuse Montero has received since issuing Bellingham’s red card.
Bellingham Available for Champions League Clash
Despite the domestic suspension, Bellingham remains eligible for European competition, meaning he will be available for Real Madrid’s crucial Champions League showdown against Manchester City on Wednesday.
