Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham's red card suspension has been upheld by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), despite the club's efforts to present video evidence in their appeal. The England international will now miss two crucial matches following his controversial dismissal during Madrid's 1-1 draw.
Karren Brady, former managing director at Birmingham City where Bellingham began his career, has offered her perspective on the incident in her column for The Sun. The controversy centers around Bellingham allegedly directing an expletive at referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero, though the player maintains the remark was self-directed frustration.
Brady acknowledges that criticism of referees has become deeply embedded in football culture, stating, "Fierce criticism of referees is practically a national habit, either in stadiums or at the TV. And why not? If we wish to send hot air at such targets and without much chance of reprisal, well, good luck to us."
However, she questions whether Bellingham crossed a line with his remarks, noting, "The hugely talented 21-year-old says it was directed at himself. The ref said it was aimed at him and he had the red card!" Brady pointedly adds, "Bellingham is no innocent Brummie abroad. He has been sent off as a Real player once before and should know that while 'f*** off' is often aimed at someone's own failings, it can easily be misunderstood."
Brady expresses broader concerns about player conduct, stating, "No one expects going to a match to be like attending church, but some of the bile delivered at refs and players is gruesome." She draws an interesting parallel with tennis, suggesting Bellingham could learn from John McEnroe's famous "you cannot be serious" plea to umpires, describing it as a "perfect" way to express disagreement while staying within acceptable bounds.
The RFEF's disciplinary committee deemed Real Madrid's video evidence "not relevant" in their appeal, resulting in Bellingham being ruled out of matches against Girona on February 23 and Real Betis on March 2. Brady emphasizes that while football's non-stop action and emotional nature can lead to controversial VAR decisions, players must find more appropriate ways to express their disagreement without facing disciplinary consequences.
