Pep Guardiola gives his verdict on Jude Bellingham red card

The England star was shown a red card in the last LaLiga game.

According to Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola, he doesn’t know the difference between “fck off” and “fck you” in reference to Jude Bellingham’s red card controversy.

Bellingham questioned calls that had gone against his team and challenged referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero after becoming dissatisfied with the officiating in Real Madrid‘s LaLiga match against Osasuna last weekend. He did this by pointing across the field.

Bellingham responded to the Spanish official’s request that he “speak with respect,” “I am speaking to you with respect.” However, cameras caught him seemingly saying, “f*** you,” as he turned away. The English star was clearly stunned when the referee quickly showed a straight red card.

Bellingham has insisted, however, that he never intentionally insulted any match official. LaLiga has decided to exclude the referee from the upcoming matchday due to the controversy surrounding his dismissal and the internet abuse he has received.

Speaking about the event, Manchester City manager Guardiola noted how difficult it can be to determine intent in these circumstances.

“My English is good, but I don’t understand the difference between f— off and f— you,” Guardiola told reporters. “But what’s important is the intention, not the insult. The best thing is not to do it and leave the referees in peace. There have always been decisions. You should ask Jude what his intention was. That’s what matters. Maybe you can insult someone with a great smile on your face and that wouldn’t be that bad, right?”

🚨🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Pep Guardiola on Jude Bellingham swearing at the referee: “My English is good but I've never understood 'f*ck off' or 'f*ck you'!”.“You should ask Jude what his intention was”. pic.twitter.com/e9EJv4es7X

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 18, 2025

Guardiola stated that unless an unforeseen circumstance occurs, he typically does not discuss referee-related issues with his team. Meanwhile, Bellingham’s case has sparked conversations regarding player behaviour.

Bellingham could have faced a lengthy penalty after being shown a red card. However, he is suspended for two games although some thought it could be for four to twelve games. Bellingham will miss important LaLiga matches.

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