Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Girona was not without controversy. A contentious action involving Kylian Mbappé and referee Gil Manzano set the debate alight.
Real Madrid moved dangerously close to Barcelona in the standings following their fine 3-0 win at Girona. But after the match, a controversy erupted in Spain. Controversy erupted at the start of the second half in Girona. Kylian Mbappé was involved in a fierce duel with a Girona defender and touched the ball with his hand before shooting alone at goal. Despite the confusion, referee Gil Manzano quickly cancelled out the action for a handball. But it was what happened next that triggered a wave of criticism.
While many expected a yellow card for the Frenchman, who had already been cautioned in the first half for protesting, no additional penalty was imposed. This decision immediately sparked debate. A second caution would have led to the Madrid striker being sent off, a scenario that would have radically changed the course of the match.
As a reminder, Kylian Mbappé was shown his first yellow card just before half-time for vehement protests against Gil Manzano. Clearly annoyed by certain decisions, the Frenchman had expressed his displeasure quite openly. This forced the referee to show the card.
But in the case of the hand incident, Gil Manzano’s leniency was questionable. According to the rules, any gesture that is deliberate or interpreted as such, such as a hand allowing an advantage, can result in a caution. By avoiding a second caution, the referee allowed Mbappé to stay on the pitch… and seal victory for his side a few minutes later.
Mbappé’s goal sparks debate in Spain
Ironically, it was Kylian Mbappé who scored Real Madrid’s third goal in the 62nd minute, moments after the controversial move. Found by Luka Modric on the right flank, the Bondynois finished with a crisp, precise shot. The goal, although magnificent, rekindled the anger of Catalan fans and many observers. On social networks, some fans denounced ‘favouritism’ in favour of Real Madrid. They also accused Gil Manzano of turning a blind eye to obvious fouls.
In the aftermath of the match, criticism was not slow in coming. Journalists and sports analysts, particularly in Catalonia, did not mince their words. Girona’s technical staff preferred to adopt a measured stance. In any case, this is not the first time that the Spanish referee has found himself at the centre of controversy. Gil Manzano, renowned for his clear-cut decisions, has often been criticised for his handling of matches involving the two giants of Spanish football. Some believe he has a tendency to give preferential treatment to the big teams, an accusation he has always denied.
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