Real Madrid to appeal Dean Huijsen’s Red Card against Real Sociedad

Real Madrid is preparing to appeal the red card shown to defender Dean Huijsen during last Saturday’s La Liga clash with Real Sociedad. Referee Jesús Gil Manzano noted in his official report that the dismissal was for “knocking down an opponent, avoiding a manifest goal opportunity.”

Deadline to File the Appeal

Clubs in La Liga, both First and Second Division, have until Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. to file appeals. However, the margin of success is extremely slim due to the RFEF’s Disciplinary Code, particularly Article 27 on arbitral records, which grants strong legal weight to referees’ official match reports.

According to Article 27, referee minutes and any clarifications made by officials are considered necessary documentary evidence. While affected parties may submit additional proof, including video evidence, the Disciplinary Committee only overturns decisions if the footage demonstrates an obvious and indisputable error.
In this case, the video presented by Real Madrid is unlikely to discredit Gil Manzano’s decision, making it improbable that the expulsion will be annulled.

Likely Outcome: One-Match Ban

Under Article 121 of the Disciplinary Code, direct expulsions carry a minimum sanction of one match, unless deemed more serious. Importantly, the disciplinary body cannot downgrade a red card to a yellow, meaning the player will almost certainly miss Real Madrid’s upcoming match against Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Next Steps in the Appeal Process

If, as expected, the initial appeal is rejected, Real Madrid can still escalate the case to the Appeal Committee and ultimately to the Administrative Court of Sport (TAD). However, unless there is a major surprise, Huijsen’s suspension will stand.