‘Lamine Yamal provoked him’ – Manuel Pellegrini blasts ‘lamentable’ referee after Barcelona loss

Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini strongly criticized the officiating following his team's 5-2 defeat against Barcelona on Saturday. Pellegrini described the referee's performance as lamentable, claiming that pivotal decisions conditioned the match. Specifically, he argued that Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal provoked the confrontation that led to Facundo Bernal's sending-off for retaliation.

Beyond Bernal's red card, Pellegrini disputed a disallowed Real Betis goal involving Cucho, arguing an earlier push caused the handball. He also questioned a Barcelona goal that was allowed despite a high foot. The victory kept Barcelona top of La Liga with a perfect start, while Real Betis suffered their second defeat of the season.