Video by ifatima.d7

The expulsion of Real Madrid player Fede Valverde sparked controversy during the derby match against Atletico Madrid, in the 29th round of the Spanish League, after referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero showed a direct red card in his face following a strong intervention on Alex Baena. The Spanish newspaper “Mundo Deportivo” reported that the referee did not hesitate to make his decision, as he expelled Valverde as soon as he saw the intervention, in a shot that he was clearly close to, which made him decisive in his decision without resorting to video technology.

Valverde and a number of Real Madrid players demanded that the situation be reviewed via video technology, but the referee stuck to his decision, confirming his complete conviction in the validity of the expulsion due to the nature of the intervention. The incident witnessed strong objections from Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who repeatedly protested the decision, prompting the referee to go to the bench to explain directly the reasons for the player’s expulsion. According to what was reported by the Spanish newspaper, the referee explained to Arbeloa the reason for his decision, saying: “I will explain to you, calm down, he did not play the ball,” before the Real Madrid coach interrupted him, and the referee confirmed in his explanation that the player came from behind, did not play the ball, and his only intention was to bring down the opponent with excessive force. This interpretation reflects the referee’s conviction that the interference required a direct expulsion, given that it was considered violent play without a clear attempt to reach the ball, which is what he quickly decided on in one of the most prominent moments of the match.

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