Valverde Blames Red Card and Penalty for Defeat to Manchester United
Valverde was adamant that the red card and penalty were harsh and unfair, suggesting they overshadowed his team’s performance.
Valverde blames penalty and red card for Athletic Bilbao's defeat to Manchester United. Photo/Getty Images.
By Robert Assad
Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has expressed his frustration after his side’s defeat to Manchester United, blaming a controversial penalty decision and red card for changing the course of the match.
Speaking after the game, Valverde pointed to a handball incident involving United’s Alejandro Garnacho that went unpunished, while a separate handball against his own side led to both a penalty and a sending-off.
“We protested a previous handball by Garnacho. I think the ball hit his hand… The referee decided it was a penalty and a red card. For me, it was too much punishment,” Valverde said.
The incident occurred in the second half when Bilbao appeared to be in control of the match. A shot struck the arm of a Bilbao defender inside the box, prompting the referee to point to the spot and brandish a red card.
United converted the penalty and went on to capitalize on their numerical advantage, ultimately sealing a victory.
Valverde was adamant that the red card and penalty were harsh and unfair, suggesting they overshadowed his team’s performance.
“The red card affected the match,” he stated. “When we were 11 vs. 11 players, we were way better than Manchester United.”
Indeed, before the dismissal, Bilbao looked sharper and created several dangerous opportunities. Their pressing game caused problems for United’s backline, and they had the better chances in the opening exchanges.
However, the turning point came with the controversial decision that reduced them to ten men and gave United the lead from the spot.
The defeat marks a setback for Bilbao, who had been enjoying strong form in recent matches. Valverde’s side will now need to regroup and refocus as they look to maintain their momentum in domestic competitions.
The manager’s comments reflect ongoing concerns about the consistency of officiating in high-stakes matches. VAR was consulted during the decision, but Valverde and his players were left unconvinced by the explanation. “We just want fairness. If one handball is a penalty, then all similar situations should be treated the same,” he added.
Manchester United, meanwhile, took full advantage of their extra man and pressed home their superiority in the closing stages. But Valverde insisted that, under equal conditions, his team had been the stronger side.
Bilbao lost 3-0 to Manchester United in the Europa League Semi Final leg 1 of 2 clash.
About Author
