Atletico Madrid reignite tensions with Real Madrid after Valverde verdict: ‘Congratulations, you’re the best at this’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been handed a major setback following the latest decision from the Royal Spanish Football Federation’s Disciplinary Committee, which has confirmed a one-match suspension for Federico Valverde.

The sanction comes after the Uruguayan midfielder was shown a straight red card during the recent derby clash against Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, a match that ended 3-2 in Los Blancos’ favour.

Valverde was dismissed following a challenge on Alex Baena. 

Match referee, Jose Luis Munuera Montero, included a detailed explanation in his official report, stating the card was issued for “kicking an opponent, with the ball not in play, using excessive force.”

Atlético Madrid react with criticism

Following the announcement of the one-match suspension, Atletico Madrid publicly expressed their frustration, suggesting inconsistency in how such incidents are handled.

Reacting on social media, the club wrote,

“Congratulations, you’re the best at this. Mission accomplished: 1 match for Valverde.”

They continued their criticism by questioning the fairness of disciplinary decisions.

“Football fans can go on vacation with peace of mind knowing that the colour of the jersey and media noise do not influence the decisions of sports justice. 

“Same committee. Same wording in the report. Different criteria.”

Real Madrid’s defence rejected

Real Madrid attempted to appeal the red card, arguing that Valverde’s challenge was part of a genuine attempt to play the ball and occurred within a competitive context.

However, the Disciplinary Committee dismissed this argument, making it clear that such interpretations fall under the referee’s authority and are not easily overturned.

Explaining their position, the Committee addressed comparisons made by the club with similar incidents, rejecting the use of precedent as a defence.

“The principle of analogy cannot be invoked to justify the exclusion of liability in the realm of sports discipline,” they said.

Right now, Valverde’s one-match suspension means Real Madrid will miss their key midfielder for a crucial La Liga away clash against Mallorca.