Jude Bellingham’s emotions boiled over at the worst possible time. As Real Madrid fell to a last-gasp 2-1 defeat against Valencia at the Santiago Bernabeu, the 21-year-old midfielder lashed out—not at the opposition, but at the pitch-side VAR monitor. And now, with Real Madrid heading into a season-defining clash with Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League, Bellingham may once again be in disciplinary trouble.
Los Blancos had battled through 94 minutes of frustration before conceding a crushing late winner from Hugo Duro. The loss leaves them four points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race and deepens the scrutiny on Carlo Ancelotti’s team. But all eyes were on Bellingham as the full-time whistle blew.
As the England international walked off the field, he vented his anger by kicking the VAR monitor, a move caught on camera and widely circulated across social media. While the monitor was not visibly damaged, the act was enough to draw attention from La Liga’s disciplinary bodies.
This is not Bellingham’s first brush with trouble in Spain. Just last month, he served a two-match suspension after receiving a straight red card for allegedly swearing at the referee in a match against Osasuna. According to manager Carlo Ancelotti, the official accused Bellingham of saying “f** you,”* though the Italian insisted it was “f** off,”* expressing disagreement rather than direct insult.
The suspension kept the English midfielder out of key fixtures, including the first leg of the Champions League tie with Atletico Madrid. His absence was felt, and there’s a growing concern within the club that another ban now could severely hurt their run-in.
How many games could Bellingham be banned for?
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) rules are clear on acts of aggression—evenagainst equipment. Kicking or damaging league property can be punished with fines or bans ranging from one to three games. Even if no damage is confirmed, players can still face sanctions for “bringing the game into disrepute” or displaying “disrespectful conduct.”
As Marca and Relevo reported, if the referee didn’t include the incident in his match report, Bellingham might escape further punishment, as Celta Vigo’s Iago Aspas did in a similar incident last season. But given the 21-year-old’s recent disciplinary history, RFEF may opt for a stricter interpretation.
Recuerdo sanciones durisimas por hacer esto mismo que hizo ayer Bellingham. El caballero inglés. Evidentemente no pasará nada.
Still Madrid’s bright light
It’s a frustrating paradox for Real Madrid. Bellingham remains their standout performer this season, having delivered double-digit goals and assists across all competitions. His assist for Vinicius against Valencia was another reminder of his value, even in defeat.
But his disciplinary issues continue to mount, casting a shadow over his on-pitch brilliance. With eight yellow cards, one red, and multiple missed games due to suspension this season, The Englishman’s passion, while often his strength, is increasingly becoming a liability.
