Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was recently at the centre of a contentious decision during a match against Real Betis on 7 December. Referee Muniz Ruiz issued Flick a direct red card, citing his alleged misconduct, including stepping outside his technical area, shouting, gesturing, and protesting a decision. This resulted in a two-match suspension, which was upheld despite Barcelona’s appeal.

However, Luis Medina Cantalejo, president of the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA), has acknowledged that the decision to expel Flick was unwarranted.

Controversial Decision Criticised

Speaking during a seminar with referees, Cantalejo expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, asserting that Flick had not committed any significant misconduct. In an audio recording released by Jijantes, Cantalejo stated that Flick “did nothing wrong” and criticised the inconsistencies in officiating standards.

Cantalejo highlighted the leniency often shown towards players and managers who engage in excessive gestures, verbal protests, and even disruptive behaviour. He contrasted this with Flick’s relatively minor reaction, which led to an expulsion, raising questions about fairness and consistency.

“Making all kinds of gestures, barbarities, and so on... And this week, I have to say it, we have seen the expulsion of a coach. May God come and see,” Cantalejo remarked.

Call for Verbal Warnings

Cantalejo also emphasised the importance of applying verbal warnings before escalating to disciplinary action. He noted that a protocol was introduced in recent seasons to ensure referees issue clear verbal warnings as a first step.

“It’s different if we know someone causes problems every weekend, protests everything, and disrupts the game. In such cases, if I go too far one day, he should shut up. But we introduced this protocol of verbal warnings, and referees must enforce it clearly,” Cantalejo explained.

Promoting Fairness in Officiating

The CTA president called for fairness in decision-making, acknowledging that expressions of frustration are a natural part of the game. He argued that not every instance of protest should result in severe punishment.

“If the coach continues to protest or insists on having the last word, then issue a warning. But I repeat, let’s strive to be fairer,” he concluded.

Impact on Barcelona

The red card and subsequent suspension came at a critical stage of the season, hampering Barcelona’s tactical approach. Flick’s absence from the touchline for two matches added to the club’s frustrations and reignited debates about officiating standards in football.

The incident has sparked broader discussions about the consistency and fairness of refereeing decisions, with many calling for reforms to ensure greater clarity and accountability in officiating.