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Jude Bellingham's red card against Osasuna could come with significant consequences for the Real Madrid star
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham could face a 12-game suspension after being sent off against Osasuna on Saturday for allegedly using foul and abusive language toward the referee.
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Although Bellingham insists he was misunderstood Madrid may appeal the decision in hopes of reducing the potential ban.
Bellingham and Ancelotti claim miscommunication
Bellingham was shown a straight red card in the 39th minute of Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Osasuna after referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero claimed the Englishman told him: "F*** you."
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However, Bellingham refuted the accusation, explaining that he had actually said "F*** off" in frustration towards himself rather than at the referee.
Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti backed his player, saying, "I think the referee did not understand Jude Bellingham’s English. He said 'f*** off', not 'f*** you'… that’s way different."
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Bellingham took to social media after the match, saying, "Enough said about the misunderstanding. Just wanted to apologise again for leaving my teammates in such a tough position and thank the fans for their support and understanding. See you on Wednesday at home."
Possible 12-game suspension looms
According to the Spanish FA’s disciplinary code, any player found guilty of "insulting, offending, or addressing the main referee, assistants, fourth official, directors, or sports authorities in offensive terms" can be banned for four to 12 matches.
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If the maximum ban is enforced, Bellingham would miss crucial LaLiga fixtures against Girona, Real Betis, and Rayo Vallecano, as well as the first leg of Madrid’s Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad.
A full 12-game ban would see him miss most of the remainder of the season, with 14 game weeks left in the LaLiga season.
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Bellingham remains hopeful that a review of the footage will clear him, saying, "There was no insult. You can see clearly in the video. It was an expression to myself, not directed at the referee. I hope the footage review can show that."
With Real Madrid expected to appeal, it remains to be seen whether the Spanish FA will uphold the punishment or reduce the potential ban for one of LaLiga’s standout stars this season.
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