Barcelona -Coach Hansi Flick called on his players to refrain from “disrespectful” behavior against officials after Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid was sent on Saturday for different opinions.
Bellingham received a straight red card for entering into “dirty and offensive language” against referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero during the 1-1 draw of Madrid with Osasuna.
Bellingham said after the match that he had not insulted the referee and described the situation as a misunderstanding.
On Sunday he gave an apology on social media for “leave my teammates in such a difficult position”.
Flick, who spoke to Rayo Vallecano on Monday before Barcelona's home game, said that he had reminded his team of the importance of avoiding confrontations with competition officials.
@Bellinghamjude: “There was no insult and it is clear on the video.” Full interview RM Play
– Real Madrid CF (@Realmadriden) 15 February 2025
“It's a lack of respect. It is true for me. But I don't have to decide,” he said during a press conference on Sunday.
“I don't like this behavior and I told my players today because it is very important.
“It's not good for the team if you do this and get the red card. It is a weakness and we don't like that.
“We have one person on the field who can discuss with the referee and that is the captain. We have to accept that.”
Barca in third place can return to the top of Laliga with a victory over Rayo.
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