Real Madrid have once again voiced strong concerns about officiating in La Liga after midfielder Federico Valverde was sent off in Sunday night’s 3–2 win over Atlético Madrid. The Uruguayan received a straight red card for a deliberate trip on Álex Baena and will now miss the next two domestic matches against Mallorca and Girona following the international break.
Valverde dismissed in derby comeback
After going behind to a 33rd-minute goal from Ademola Lookman, Madrid responded impressively, taking a 3–1 lead thanks to a brace from Vinícius Júnior and another goal from Valverde. Nahuel Molina later reduced the deficit for Atlético, before Valverde was sent off for his challenge on Baena.
Referee José Luis Munuera Montero issued the red card, a decision upheld after a VAR review. In his report, he stated that Valverde “kicked an opponent with excessive force while not within playing distance.”
Madrid label decision a “scandal”
Madrid used their club channel to criticize the call, arguing that the foul only warranted a yellow card. They described the decision as “a scandal” and “a disgrace,” insisting the punishment was excessive.
The club also suggested inconsistencies in officiating, referencing previous incidents and questioning why VAR did not intervene differently. They maintained that Valverde’s challenge lacked intent to harm and should not have resulted in a dismissal.
Arbeloa responds to the incident
Manager Álvaro Arbeloa acknowledged the team’s resilience in securing victory despite being reduced to 10 men but disagreed with the referee’s judgment.
He appreciated that Munuera Montero personally explained the decision, which was based on perceived excessive force, though Arbeloa maintained that there was no intent to injure the opponent.
According to Arbeloa, the red card made the closing stages far more difficult, but he praised his team’s determination to hold on for all three points, describing the win as a crucial step in their title push.
