Manuel Pellegrini Faces Possible 12-Match Suspension After Criticizing Referee in Barcelona Defeat

Real Betis Coach Risks Lengthy Ban Over Comments on Referee

Manuel Pellegrini, the manager of Real Betis, may be sidelined for up to 12 LaLiga matches following his criticism of referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea after a 5-2 loss to Barcelona.

Refereeing Union Set to Review Comments

The Spanish referees’ union, AESAF, is currently reviewing Pellegrini's remarks and could take the issue to the Royal Spanish Football Federation’s Disciplinary Committee (RFEF). The Chilean coach was particularly upset about a disallowed goal by Giovani Lo Celso due to a handball by Cucho Hernandez and a red card decision that he believes impacted the game significantly.

Pellegrini’s Reaction to the Match

"It seemed to me like a lamentable performance by the referee, lacking footballing criteria," Pellegrini said after the game.

He also suggested that the refereeing choices influenced the final result, which might lead to disciplinary measures if officials determine his comments breach regulations.

Possible Sanctions Under RFEF Regulations

Article 106 of the RFEF Disciplinary Code outlines penalties for those who question the integrity or impartiality of referees or use offensive language towards them. Should AESAF lodge a complaint and the committee find Pellegrini's statements inappropriate, his suspension could range from four to twelve games.

• Potential suspension: 4 to 12 matches
• Possible fine: Between €601 and €3,005.06

No formal punishment has been announced yet. Some previous cases where coaches criticized referees were ruled compatible with freedom of expression, so Pellegrini might avoid sanctions depending on the interpretation of his words.

Current Status

For now, Pellegrini remains at risk while the refereeing union considers its next steps after Betis' defeat at Barcelona.