Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Osasuna was made even more frustrating by a red card shown to star player Jude Bellingham.
The incident has sparked controversy, with differing reports about what the England international allegedly said to referee José Munuera. While the official claimed that Bellingham directed an explicit insult at him, other sources suggest the player simply questioned a refereeing decision.
Referee’s Version of Events
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Bellingham received a straight red card late in the first half, leaving both him and his teammates surprised. The referee later explained his decision to Luka Modric on Movistar, stating, “He said ‘fk you’ to me.” Modric immediately protested, insisting, “No! No! He didn’t say anything!”
Bellingham Denies Insulting the Referee
However, a different version has since emerged. According to José Luis Sánchez of El Chiringuito TV, Bellingham denied swearing at the referee, instead claiming he said, “If this is a foul, that is a penalty.”
This isn’t the first time Bellingham has had a tense interaction with referees. Earlier this season, during a heated Madrid derby against Atlético, he was heard shouting, “F you, man, f off!”
Rising Frustrations
It’s clear that Bellingham’s frustration with officiating is growing. His red card only adds fuel to the ongoing debate over inconsistent refereeing in La Liga this season.
Following the red card, Bellingham may face further sanctions for his alleged outburst against the referee, similar to the retrospective punishment Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski faced last season.