Referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero’s decision to dismiss Jude Bellingham for dissent during the first half of Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna at El Sadar last weekend infuriated the team. Although he says he said “f*** off,” the English midfielder is claimed to have said “f*** you” to the official.
Following the event, Munuera Montero received death threats, which the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) has since stated were unacceptable. The Spanish Football Federation’s Compliance Committee is currently looking into the referee, so things are not getting any better.
In particular, the committee is investigating whether Munuera Montero’s “extra-sporting activities” violate point 9.1 of the Regulatory Code, which states that “when the persons bound by this rule (including referees) have secondary interests that may interfere in the fulfillment of their professional obligations.” This information was reported by Diario AS.
According to the story, Munuera Montero is the proprietor of the sports consulting firm Talentus Sports, which is said to have clients that include UEFA, La Liga, and even a number of football teams, like Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain.
The Federation’s Compliance Committee has been made aware of this disclosure and is looking into Munuera Montero’s potential conflicts of interest. According to reports, he could be barred from officiating for a maximum of five years if proven guilty.
Since the probe is still in its early stages, a conclusion is not anticipated anytime soon. Since the Federation has not issued a confirmation on the subject, it is unclear if Munuera Montero will be permitted to continue officiating while this case is still pending.