MADRID — Sevilla’s coach Matias Almeyda criticized referee Alejandro Muñiz after receiving a red card at half-time during his team’s 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid. Almeyda declared, “I’m not a clown in a circus,” and called for the audio of his interaction with the official to be disclosed.
Almeyda was sent off with Sevilla trailing 1-0 after Jude Bellingham’s first-half goal at the Bernabéu. He received a second yellow card while in the tunnel, having previously been cautioned for protesting Muñiz’s decisions.
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Sevilla’s woes continued in the second half when defender Marcão was also dismissed. Kylian Mbappé later converted a penalty, although another penalty awarded to Madrid was overturned following a VAR review.
In a heated post-match press conference, Almeyda expressed his frustration, saying, “I’m not a clown in a circus. I have a history in football and as a man.” He lamented the red card and emphasized the need to clarify that he did not insult the referee.
He urged journalists to seek the release of the audio recordings from the incident and claimed he had witnesses to support his lack of insult towards Muñiz. “Today the referee was very poor,” Almeyda stated, adding that he valued respect and expected that any claims otherwise be substantiated.
Meanwhile, despite the victory, Madrid’s coach Xabi Alonso acknowledged the ongoing pressure to improve, stating, “We’re aware of our situation and are self-critical to enhance our performance.” Although he praised the importance of the win, he recognized that certain aspects did not unfold as desired.
Regarding the fans’ reactions to Vinícius Júnior during his late substitution, Alonso remarked that supporters are “free to express themselves.” He contextualized the match, pointing out that his side faced several absences due to suspensions and injuries.
This victory puts Madrid in second place in LaLiga, just one point behind Barcelona, who will be playing against Villarreal on Sunday as they head into 2026.