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

Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini could be suspended for up to 12 games after openly criticizing referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea following his team's 5-2 loss to Barcelona.

The Spanish refereeing union AESAF is reviewing Pellegrini's statements and may file an official complaint with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

Pellegrini’s Criticism of Officiating

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, AESAF will analyze the remarks before possibly referring the case to the RFEF Disciplinary Committee. Pellegrini was particularly upset over a disallowed goal by Giovani Lo Celso, which was ruled out due to a handball by Cucho Hernandez, as well as a red card decision that affected the match's outcome.

“It seemed to me like a lamentable performance by the referee, lacking footballing criteria,” Pellegrini said after the match.

He suggested that these decisions played a key role in the final scoreline. If his comments are judged as violating football regulations in Spain, disciplinary measures could follow.

Possible Sanctions Under RFEF Regulations

Article 106 of the RFEF Disciplinary Code allows sanctions against those who question the honesty or impartiality of referees or discredit their performance using offensive or disrespectful language.

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

This comes on top of a tough day for Pellegrini and Real Betis. However, no formal punishment has yet been confirmed. Past cases have sometimes allowed such remarks under freedom of expression, so the outcome depends on how officials interpret his words.

For now, the Betis coach remains under scrutiny as the refereeing union decides its next steps following the defeat at Barcelona.