Real Madrid set to challenge Dean Huijsen's 'questionable' red card at Real Sociedad
By
SABC Sport
15th September 2025
Real Madrid are preparing to appeal Dean Huijsen's controversial red card, issued during their 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad on Saturday.
The young defender was dismissed in the 32nd minute for a foul on Mikel Oyarzabal, with referee Jesus Gil Manzano deeming it a denial of a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
However, Real Madrid contend that the decision was unjustified, citing Eder Militao's proximity to the play and the lack of control by Oyarzabal over the ball.
Manager Xabi Alonso expressed his disagreement with the decision, stating, "For me, it was a yellow card. Militao was close by, and the ball wasn't under control."
He further added that he sought clarification from the referee but remained unconvinced by the explanation.
The club's confidence in the appeal stems from the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA), whose sources have admitted that the red card was the wrong decision. Despite this, VAR did not intervene, as it was not considered a clear and obvious error by the on-field referee.
Real Madrid are optimistic that the suspension will be overturned, allowing Huijsen to feature in their upcoming match against Espanyol on Saturday. The club is also compiling a detailed dossier of refereeing decisions to submit to FIFA, aiming to address ongoing concerns over officiating standards in Spanish football.
This incident adds to the growing scrutiny of refereeing decisions in La Liga, with Real Madrid's proactive stance highlighting the need for consistency and accountability within the league.
