Jude Bellingham (foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Jude Bellingham has spoken out after his controversial red card in Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Saturday.
The English midfielder was sent off for what officials cited as 'dissent' toward referee Munuera Montero, sparking debate over the decision.
Despite Kylian Mbappé giving Los Blancos the lead, Bellingham’s dismissal in the first half proved costly as Osasuna equalized after the break. Following the game, the 21-year-old insisted he never insulted the referee and apologized to his teammates for leaving them a man down.
"I never insulted the referee. I’m glad to see there are the videos to show the reality despite the referee’s report," Bellingham said.
"I’m here to apologize to my teammates as I put them in a difficult situation today. I didn’t say anything bad to the referee. It’s clear that there was a communication error."
Explaining the misunderstanding, Bellingham clarified that he used a common Spanish expression, not an insult. "It’s an expression like the Spanish one ‘joder’… and the consequence is that he left us with one less player. It’s not an insult, it was an expression for myself."
The England international later took to Instagram to try and move past the controversy. "Enough said about the misunderstanding," he wrote. "Just wanted to apologize again for leaving my teammates in such a tough position and thank the fans for their support and understanding. Nos vemos el Miércoles en casa! (See you Wednesday at home!)"
Real Madrid are set to face Girona in La Liga next weekend, but it remains uncertain if the club will appeal Bellingham’s ban. He is, however, available for Wednesday’s crucial Champions League clash against Manchester City.
The midfielder could face a lengthy suspension after referee Montero reported that he had been sworn at. Under Spanish Football Federation rules, if the complaint is upheld, Bellingham could be handed a 12-match ban.