Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has received a two-match suspension in La Liga, as announced by the Spanish Football Federation, following a red card issued during a contentious match against Osasuna on Saturday. This means he will miss important upcoming games against Girona and Real Betis.

The suspension was triggered by Bellingham’s remarks directed at referee Munuera Montero during the match. Although the referee’s initial report suggested Bellingham used a harsher phrase, specifically “f*** you,” video replays indicated he actually said “f*** off.” This clarification played a critical role in the Federation’s determination, leading to a two-match suspension instead of a potentially longer ban.

Real Madrid plans to contest the ruling, asserting that the red card was unjustified. The club argues that while Bellingham’s emotions ran high, such a stringent penalty was excessive. However, challenging this decision may prove difficult, given the Spanish Football Federation’s reputation for strictly upholding referees’ rulings, which are rarely reversed. Bellingham’s absence, a significant blow to Madrid’s midfield strength, will certainly test the team’s resilience in the vital matches on the horizon.