Why UEFA Is Investigating Referee Who Sent Off Jude Bellingham for Dissent

UEFA has launched an investigation into the referee who sent Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham off during a controversial match against Osasuna in La Liga. Bellingham was shown a second yellow card at the end of the first half, which led to his red card and caused frustration among the Real Madrid players and fans.

The incident occurred after Bellingham appeared to express his anger at the referee, José Luis Munuera Montero, saying “I am talking to you with respect” before reportedly saying “F*** off” as he walked away. Munuera Montero interpreted the latter comment as dissent, leading to the sending off.

Bellingham later explained that the comment was meant as an expression to himself, not directed at the referee, and his manager, Carlo Ancelotti, supported his version of events.

Following the match, referee Munuera Montero received abuse online, including death threats. As a result, he was not appointed to officiate any matches in the next La Liga matchweek.

It has now been revealed that Munuera Montero is under investigation by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for a potential conflict of interest. He is said to be the founder of a consultancy and sports management company that works with La Liga, UEFA, the RFEF, and Atletico Madrid.

As a result of the investigation, UEFA has removed Munuera Montero from his refereeing duties until the case is resolved. While the probe is still in its early stages, he could face a €100,000 fine and a five-year ban from refereeing if found guilty of any wrongdoing. Officials are not allowed to have outside interests that could interfere with their professional duties.

In response to the abuse directed at Munuera Montero, the RFEF issued a statement condemning the attacks. They expressed support for the referee and highlighted the wider issue of verbal and physical abuse referees face, especially in lower divisions.

Following news of the investigation, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola called for an end to the online abuse, urging fans and the media to “leave him alone.”