For the second time this season, Real Madrid found themselves frustrated by the officiating standards in La Liga, particularly following Jude Bellingham’s red card in their 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Saturday.
Bellingham was sent off after allegedly telling referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero “fk you,” but Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti clarified that the Englishman actually said “fk off,” accusing the referee of misinterpreting the intent behind his words.
Despite Madrid’s plans to appeal the decision, Bellingham has been handed a two-match suspension, meaning he will miss upcoming fixtures for the Spanish giants.
Which matches will Jude Bellingham miss due to suspension?
The 21-year-old will sit out two La Liga games: the home match against Girona on February 23 and the away game at Real Betis on March 2. With Madrid’s La Liga lead slipping to Barcelona over the weekend, these upcoming matches are crucial for their title defense.
However, Bellingham’s suspension only applies to La Liga, meaning he will remain available for other competitions. He will play in the Champions League second-leg play-off against Manchester City on Wednesday, having scored the match-winning goal in the first leg at the Etihad.
Additionally, Bellingham will be eligible for Madrid’s Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad on February 26, as Los Blancos aim to reclaim the title from last year’s champions, Athletic Club.
If Madrid’s appeal is unsuccessful, Bellingham’s next La Liga appearance will be on March 9, when Rayo Vallecano visit the Santiago Bernabeu.
