Real Madrid is not accepting Jude Bellingham's suspension. The Royal Club appealed the two-match ban, but it was unsuccessful. Therefore, the Madridistas are now even taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
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Real Madrid is taking a stand on what they perceive as a matter of principle regarding Jude Bellingham's suspension, even though they acknowledge that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is unlikely to issue a decision before the midfielder's two-match ban in La Liga begins.
This acknowledgment confirms Bellingham's absence in the upcoming matches against Celta de Vigo and Osasuna, as reported by The Athletic. The stance by Real Madrid appears to be less about the immediate impact of the suspension on their lineup and more about challenging the principles and processes behind disciplinary decisions in Spanish football.
The heart of the dispute lies in the reaction of Bellingham to a controversial moment during a league match, where he was shown a red card following his protest against a decision made by referee Gil Manzano. Bellingham believed he had scored a legitimate goal, only for it to be disallowed as Manzano blew the whistle for what he perceived as a foul in the buildup. The resulting argument led to Bellingham's dismissal after he allegedly used profane language to describe the disallowed goal.
Real Madrid's previous appeal to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) was unsuccessful, with the federation siding with the referee's account, citing a lack of evidence to counter the decision. According to Real Madrid, Bellingham's comments were not meant to be insulting, highlighting a discrepancy between the player's intent and the federation's interpretation.
Bellingham himself has publicly responded to the incident, insisting that his words were not meant to offend and that his reaction was no different from that of his teammates. He suggests that his punishment might be an attempt by the league authorities to make an example of him, especially given his recent arrival in La Liga. "I didn't say anything offensive," Bellingham stated after a Champions League match. He expresses disappointment with the severity of the suspension but accepts responsibility for his actions, committing to support his team from the sidelines.
This incident not only highlights the ongoing challenges players face in navigating the disciplinary landscape of professional sports but also signals Real Madrid's willingness to contest decisions they view as unjust, even when the immediate benefits of such actions are not apparent. The club's decision to pursue the matter with the CAS, despite the inevitable absence of Bellingham in crucial matches, underscores a broader commitment to principle over the pragmatism of momentary gains, setting a precedent for how clubs might engage with governing bodies in the future.
