The expulsion of Jude Bellingham in the match between Real Madrid and Osasuna has been one of the most talked-about topics in the soccer world. The red card that the English midfielder received in the 39th minute of the match for protesting to referee Munuera Montero has sparked intense debate.
However, among all the opinions that have been expressed about the incident, one of the most talked-about has been that of Gonzalo Miró. On the program El Tertulión de Tiempo de Juego on COPE, he made his point of view clear with a phrase that quickly went viral. "Red card, well expelled obviously and, by the way, it was about time."
The Controversial Expulsion of Bellingham
Real Madrid drew 1-1 against Osasuna in a match that ended with many refereeing controversies, but undoubtedly the key moment was the expulsion of Jude Bellingham. According to the referee Munuera Montero's report, the English midfielder was expelled for addressing him in offensive terms. "In the 40th minute, the player Jude Bellingham was expelled for the following reason: For addressing me, being a few meters away, in the following terms: 'F** you'."*
Real Madrid, however, maintains that Bellingham never insulted the referee, but simply expressed his frustration by saying "f** off"*. This, according to the club's version, would not be a direct insult but an expression of anger. Bellingham himself denied having insulted the referee and described the expulsion as a communication error.
Gonzalo Miró and His Viral Comment on Bellingham's Red Card
Amid the controversy, Gonzalo Miró, analyst for COPE and a well-known supporter of Atlético de Madrid, did not hesitate to support the referee's decision. Additionally, he left a phrase that has become a trend on social media. "The interpretation I make of what he says is: 'I'm speaking with respect, go to hell.' Therefore, red card, well expelled obviously and, by the way, it was about time."
His words have been interpreted by many as a criticism of the treatment Bellingham has received from referees in Spain. He may have implied that until now he had been allowed too much in his protests without receiving proportional punishments.