Real Madrid's Record Red Cards Spark Controversy Across Europe

Fede Valverde's expulsion in last Sunday's derby ignited a storm of controversy that continues to strain relations between Real Madrid and Atlético. Real Madrid firmly believes that the identity of the fouled player, Baena, significantly influenced the referee's decision. Sources from Valdebebas suggested, "If the tackle had been on Koke, it would have been a yellow card, 100%." Meanwhile, Atlético accused Real Madrid of activating its "machinery" to influence public opinion regarding the incident, which the Referees' Technical Committee (CTA) declared on Tuesday was correctly officiated by Martínez Munuera.

Beyond the immediate controversy lies a striking fact: at this point in the season, Real Madrid is by far the team with the most players sent off across all competitions in Europe's top five leagues. A staggering 12 Real Madrid players have made an early exit to the dressing rooms, with 10 of these being direct red cards, similar to Valverde's in their recent match. This figure is unparalleled among the continent's elite clubs.

Leading Europe in Expulsions

Only Chelsea, with nine expulsions (five direct), comes close to Real Madrid's tally. They are followed by PSG with six, Barcelona with five, and Atlético with three expulsions.

La Liga and Champions League Figures

In La Liga, only Oviedo and Rayo have incurred more expulsions than Real Madrid (eight compared to seven). However, Real Madrid has received more direct red cards than any other team in the league, with six. Remarkably, this occurs despite Real Madrid committing nearly 100 fewer fouls (286) than Oviedo (372) and Rayo (380).

In the Champions League, Real Madrid and Dortmund share the unfortunate distinction of having the most red cards against them, totaling three each, with two of these being direct. Among other Spanish clubs in European competitions, Barcelona has had one player sent off, while Atlético has had none.

Notable Incidents and Players

Huijsen and Asencio have each been sent off twice this season, though one of these incidents for each occurred in last summer's Club World Cup, against Dortmund and Pachuca respectively. In a particularly dramatic match, Real Madrid even finished a game with only eight players: the defeat against Celta at the Bernabéu, where referee Quintero González dismissed Fran Garcia (two yellow cards), Carreras, and Endrick (direct red card).