‘This is a scandal’ – Real Madrid launch fresh attack on La Liga referees after Federico Valverde’s red card against Atletico

Real Madrid have again criticised the state of refereeing in La Liga after star midfielder Federico Valverde was sent off during Sunday night’s 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid. The Uruguayan was handed a straight red card for a cynical trip on Alex Baena and will now serve a two-game domestic suspension, ruling him out of the upcoming clashes with Mallorca and Girona after the international break.

Valverde sent off in 3-2 Madrid derby victory

After falling behind to a 33rd-minute Ademola Lookman strike, Real Madrid produced a spirited comeback to lead 3-1 through Vinicius Junior’s double and another from Valverde. However, Nahuel Molina pulled one back for Atletico before Valverde was given his marching orders for a swipe at Baena.

The decision from referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero was checked and cleared by the assistant video referee and the official’s match report later claimed Valverde “kicked an opponent, without being within striking distance, using excessive force”.