Explained: Why Zubeldia left during a corner after Remiro sought treatment | OneFootball

Confusion marked the finale at Anoeta, despite a 2-1 home win over Espanyol, as Zubeldia was ordered off while defending a stoppage-time corner after goalkeeper Remiro appeared to seek treatment.

According to Diario Vasco, the sequence followed a collision between Aramburu and Remiro that left the keeper holding his shoulder. Remiro seemed to ask referee Manuel Jesús Orellana Cid for assistance, and the official then told Zubeldia to leave. The centre-back protested on his way to the touchline and was booked.

The timing infuriated the home crowd. Espanyol could not convert the corner, Zubeldia soon returned, and the medical team never came on to treat Remiro.

The call stems from a new 2026/27 rule. If play is stopped for a goalkeeper to receive medical attention, one outfield team-mate must leave for 60 seconds to deter time-wasting. The coach must nominate the player, and if he does not within 10 seconds the captain must go, which is what happened with Zubeldia.

The benches were incensed. Pellegrino Matarazzo was sent off for protesting at losing a centre-back during stoppage time, and assistant Omer Toprak also received a straight red. The extent of any sanction remains to be seen.

Source: Diario Vasco

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