Hansi Flick Criticizes Jude Bellingham’s Behavior After Red Card Controversy

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has weighed in on the debate surrounding Jude Bellingham’s red card during Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Osasuna, calling the young English midfielder’s actions “disrespectful.”

Bellingham was sent off in the 39th minute after allegedly directing an insult at referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero. Although the 21-year-old insisted there was a miscommunication, claiming he did not directly insult the official, the incident has sparked significant controversy.

Flick: “It’s a Weakness to Argue with Referees”

In his pre-match press conference ahead of Barcelona’s crucial La Liga fixture against Rayo Vallecano, Flick made his stance on Bellingham’s behavior clear:

“It is disrespectful, but I’m not the one who should comment on it. I have always told my players: why waste time and energy arguing with the referee? There is a captain for that. I don’t like what I saw. Getting a red card for dissent is a sign of weakness.”

The Barcelona boss emphasized the importance of composure, highlighting that his squad is instructed to stay focused on the game rather than engage in unnecessary disputes with officials.

Ancelotti Defends Bellingham, Blames Language Barrier

Unsurprisingly, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti jumped to his star midfielder’s defense, suggesting that the referee misunderstood Bellingham’s words due to a language barrier.

“I think the referee did not understand Jude Bellingham’s English. He said ‘fk off,’ not ‘fk you’… that’s way different.”

Ancelotti also expressed frustration with officiating inconsistencies in La Liga, hinting at potential bias in VAR decisions.

“Strange things have happened in these last three games. The VAR didn’t review key incidents in the opponent’s box, but did in ours. There’s a problem.”

Real Madrid vs. La Liga Referees: A Growing Feud?

This incident comes shortly after Real Madrid formally complained to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), accusing referees of applying “double standards” against them. Their frustration reached new heights following their controversial 1-0 defeat to Espanyol.

Barcelona legend Gerard Piqué quickly dismissed Madrid’s complaints, accusing them of creating a “smokescreen” to divert attention from poor performances.

“Every time Madrid lose, they find a new excuse. It’s the same story over and over again.”

What Do You Think?

Was Bellingham’s red card justified? Are referees treating Real Madrid unfairly, or is this just an excuse? Drop your thoughts in the comments!