In a surprising turn of events, Getafe and LaLiga are reportedly set to break an unwritten law among football clubs by pursuing potential punishment for Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham over an alleged insult directed at Mason Greenwood.
The incident occurred during a game between Real Madrid and Getafe two weeks ago, with footage on social media fueling speculations about Bellingham’s behavior.
Breaking the Unwritten Rule: Getafe’s Report and LaLiga’s Support
Greenwood’s club, Getafe, took the unusual step of reporting the incident, breaking an unwritten rule among clubs that typically disregards matters not included in the referee’s notes.
LaLiga, surprisingly, supported Getafe’s decision, deviating from the usual practice where incidents not in the official report are ignored by senior officials.
Concerns and Fears: Unprecedented Move Raises Eyebrows
Reports suggest that the Spanish Federation and Real Madrid were surprised by LaLiga’s decision, expressing concerns about the potential flood of complaints and its negative impact on Spanish football.
Real Madrid, in particular, fears repercussions and a potential sanction for Bellingham, which could result in the star player missing up to four domestic games.
Investigation and Expert Opinion: Lip-Reading Expert’s Report
An expert report, including the insights of a lip-reading expert named Jeremy Freeman, has been produced to understand the details of the alleged insult.
Freeman has expressed 97% confidence that Bellingham did mouth the insult at Greenwood during the game.
The Spanish FA’s Competition Committee possesses the report, ordered by RFEF, and will play a crucial role in the investigation.
Legal Process: Steps Toward a Resolution
An investigating judge will gather information about the incident, consulting all parties involved, and propose a sanction or dismissal of Getafe’s complaint in approximately 15 days.
Clubs will then have 10 business days to present their cases, extending the timeline for a resolution until at least March.
Football Update: Real Madrid’s Recent Performances and Bellingham’s Injury
Real Madrid secured a 2-0 away win over Getafe, followed by a draw against Atletico Madrid and a 4-0 victory over Girona.
Bellingham sustained an ankle injury in the Girona match and is expected to be sidelined for approximately three weeks.
Despite the injury, he is anticipated to be available for England’s upcoming games in March.
Background on Greenwood: Mutual Agreement for Loan after Previous Controversy
Mason Greenwood, who previously faced serious charges in 2022, mutually agreed to leave Manchester United on loan following an internal investigation.
Charges of attempted rape, assault, and coercive behavior were dropped in February 2023 by the Crown Prosecution Service due to the withdrawal of key witnesses.
Sports News