Jorge Valdano, a respected voice in soccer and linked to Real Madrid, expressed his opinion on the refereeing controversy against Osasuna. Jude Bellingham's expulsion has been the trigger for a new episode of tensions between the white club and the referees.
The former footballer and Argentine coach, who currently works as an analyst at Movistar, has not remained silent. Although he acknowledges that some decisions by referee Munuera Montero were correct, he believes the situation has escalated too much.
Bellingham Controversy
The main focus of the discussion was the red card to Bellingham for an alleged insult to the referee. The phrase "go to hell" would have been enough for the Englishman to see the red card. However, several of his teammates criticized the sanction, arguing that it was a spontaneous reaction and not a serious offense.
Madrid had already expressed its discomfort in recent matches, such as against Espanyol, where it also criticized Soto Grado's refereeing. The relationship between the club and the referees is at its most tense point.
Valdano Doesn't Join Madrid's Theory
Far from aligning with Madrid's official stance, Valdano offered a more critical view. For him, the problem doesn't lie with the referees, but with the team's attitude in the face of adversity.
"For me, the referee got the big things right, but he has left another trail of quite unpleasant controversy. There is overacting. Players need to be stripped of excuses, not given them."
These statements have caused a great stir, as they contrast with Madrid's stance, which insists that refereeing errors have harmed them on several occasions.
Madrid and Its War with Refereeing
Madrid's management, led by Florentino Pérez, remains firm in its idea of improving the refereeing system in Spain. In recent weeks, they have filed formal complaints with the Royal Spanish Football Federation, requesting more transparency in refereeing decisions and better use of VAR.
However, Valdano believes that focusing too much on the referees can be counterproductive. For him, the team should focus on improving its performance on the field and not look for external scapegoats.
What Will Happen Now?
Madrid continues to pressure the authorities to review certain refereeing decisions. Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti's team must leave the controversy behind and focus on the fight for the LaLiga title.
Valdano's words have made it clear that not everyone within Madridism shares the same view on the issue. Some see the criticism as self-criticism, while others believe it is a way to downplay the club's complaints. What is certain is that the debate about the referees and Madrid is far from over.