The mistreatment of the referee who issued a red card to Bellingham is described as “disgusting.”

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has strongly condemned the “repulsive” abuse that referee Jose Munuera Montero has faced since issuing a red card to Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham. Montero handed Bellingham a straight red during Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna after the England international allegedly used foul language.

Since the incident, Montero has been subjected to significant online abuse, with even his family being targeted. The RFEF issued a statement denouncing these actions, expressing that professional referees are “absolutely repulsed” by the harassment Montero has received through social media platforms. The statement went on to highlight the broader issue, noting that referees often endure verbal violence in their work every weekend. Unfortunately, this can sometimes escalate into physical violence, particularly at lower levels of football.

Bellingham, for his part, expressed that the referee misinterpreted his words. The midfielder explained that he never intended to insult Montero and believed there was a misunderstanding regarding the language used. He clarified that no insult was meant and that the incident was a result of confusion.

As Bellingham faces a potential lengthy ban, his team, Real Madrid, is grappling with recent setbacks. The team’s lead at the top of La Liga has dwindled to just seven points, and they are now level on points with rivals Barcelona, although Real Madrid remains second due to a lower goal difference. With three consecutive winless games in the league, Carlo Ancelotti’s side is facing increasing pressure.