Los Blancos have reportedly considered the possibility of leaving LaLiga over recent refereeing decisions
Real Madrid are reportedly exploring the possibility of leaving LaLiga amid growing frustrations over refereeing standards, with Jude Bellingham's controversial red card against Osasuna adding fuel to their ongoing dispute with the league.
The English midfielder was sent off for alleged foul and abusive language towards referee José Luis Munuera Montero, a decision that Madrid firmly disputes.
Bellingham red sparks Real Madrid's fury
Now, reports suggest that Los Blancos could attempt to join another top European league, with options including Serie A, Ligue 1, or the Bundesliga. However, such a move would require approval from FIFA, UEFA, and the league they wish to join.
The controversy came to a head in Madrid's recent 1-1 draw with Osasuna, where Bellingham was shown a straight red card in the 39th minute. The referee's report claims that the 21-year-old shouted "f*** you" in his direction, prompting the dismissal.
However, Bellingham insists that he actually said "f*** off" in frustration towards himself, rather than at the match official.
Despite this, he now faces a potential ban of up to 12 matches, under Spanish FA disciplinary rules that sanction players for insulting or offending referees.
Madrid have repeatedly voiced concerns over refereeing standards, and Bellingham's case is just the latest in a series of decisions that have left the club feeling targeted.
Real Madrid threaten exit amid refereeing disputes
Madrid's dissatisfaction with LaLiga's officiating has been building for months. Earlier this month, the club filed a formal complaint against the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), citing "serious refereeing behaviour".
Their statement read, "What happened at the RCDE Stadium represents the culmination of a completely discredited refereeing system, in which the decisions against Real Madrid have reached a level of manipulation and adulteration of the competition that can no longer be ignored."
The club demanded the release of VAR audio recordings related to decisions, including, the controversial tackle by Espanyol defender Carlos Romero on Kylian Mbappe, which many felt should have resulted in a red card and the disallowed goal for Vinícius Jr., which Madrid believes was incorrectly ruled out.
Following their complaint, LaLiga president Javier Tebas hit back, accusing Madrid of failing to offer solutions and dismissing their concerns as repetitive complaints from their club-owned media.
With tensions reaching a boiling point, Real Madrid's reported consideration of leaving LaLiga is unprecedented. While such a move would be logistically complex, the club's global brand and stature could make them an attractive addition for another league.
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