Real Madrid mainstay handed two-match suspension after Osasuna red card as club prepares appeal | OneFootball

Jude Bellingham has been handed a two-match suspension following his red card against Osasuna in Real Madrid’s last league game of the season.

According to a report from MARCA, the Competition Committee has confirmed the ban, citing the midfielder’s remarks towards the referee as the reason for his dismissal.

During the match, Bellingham received a direct red card from referee Munuera Montero after reacting to a foul on Vinicius Jr. The official’s match report stated that the Englishman used disrespectful language towards him, leading to his immediate expulsion.

The Committee ruled that Bellingham’s words amounted to contempt or a lack of respect rather than a serious insult or offence.

This distinction was crucial in determining the length of his suspension. Had his comments been classified as an insult, the midfielder could have faced a ban ranging from four to 12 matches.

Real Madrid will appeal

Jude Bellingham was sent off against Osasuna. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Despite the ruling, Bellingham denied the version of events recorded in the referee’s report. The incident was captured on television, with footage showing him responding to Montero in frustration.

While the exact phrasing of his remarks remains a topic of debate, the Committee ultimately deemed them inappropriate, leading to the two-match suspension.

Real Madrid, unhappy with the decision, appealed to have the red card overturned, arguing that the punishment was excessive.

However, the Committee stood by its ruling, maintaining that Bellingham’s conduct warranted a ban. As a result, he is set to miss two crucial fixtures—one at home against Girona and another away against Real Betis.

With Madrid keen to have their star midfielder available, the club will now escalate the appeal to the Appeals Court, hoping to reduce or overturn the suspension.

Whether the decision will be altered remains to be seen, but for now, Bellingham’s absence poses a challenge for Carlo Ancelotti’s side as they continue their pursuit of silverware.