The dismissal of Real Madrid player Fede Valverde sparked controversy during the derby match against Atletico Madrid, as part of the 29th round of the Spanish League, after referee José Luis Munuera Montero showed him a direct red card following a strong tackle on Alex Baena.

The Spanish newspaper 'Mundo Deportivo' reported that the referee did not hesitate in making his decision, as he sent off Valverde immediately after witnessing the tackle, in a scene he was clearly close to, which made him decisive in his decision without resorting to video technology.

Valverde and several Real Madrid players requested a review of the incident via video technology, but the referee stood by his decision, asserting his complete conviction of the correctness of the dismissal due to the nature of the tackle.

The incident witnessed strong objections from Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa, who repeatedly protested the decision, prompting the referee to approach the bench to explain the reasons for the player's dismissal directly.

According to the Spanish newspaper, the referee explained his decision to Arbeloa, saying: 'I will explain to you, calm down, he did not play the ball,' before being interrupted by the Real Madrid coach, with the referee emphasizing in his explanation that the player came from behind, did not play the ball, and his sole intention was to take down the opponent with excessive force.

This explanation reflects the referee's conviction that the tackle warranted a direct dismissal, considering it violent play without a clear attempt to reach the ball, which quickly settled his decision in one of the most notable moments of the match.