Jude Bellingham has been accused of using X-rated language while speaking to a referee, and a huge 12-match ban could reportedly be on the cards.
The Englishman was shown a red card in the 39th minute by referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero for allegedly using foul and abusive language during Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Saturday.
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According to Montero's match report, per the Daily Mail, the ex-Borussia Dortmund star told him: "F*** you," an offence that carries a potential 12-match suspension under the Spanish FA's disciplinary code.
However, Bellingham insists that his words were misinterpreted, arguing that he actually said "f*** off" in frustration, with the words being directed at himself rather than the match official.
Should the maximum punishment be enforced, the 21-year-old would miss key La Liga clashes against Girona, Betis, and Rayo Vallecano, as well as the crucial first leg of Madrid's Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad.
Bellingham took to social media after the match to express his disappointment but remained optimistic.
"Enough said about the misunderstanding," he wrote. "Just wanted to apologise again for leaving my teammates in such a tough position and thank the fans for their support and understanding. See you on Wednesday at home."
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti came to his player's defence after the match, suggesting that the incident was a misunderstanding.
"I think the referee did not understand Jude Bellingham's English. He said 'f*** off', not 'f*** you'… that's way different," the Italian tactician claimed.
Bellingham, while speaking to reporters after the game, reiterated his stance that the referee got it wrong.
"It's clear that it was a mistake and a miscommunication. I remember the incident very well, but I've also seen the video, and the video doesn't match the report," the midfielder explained.
He added: "I hope that the footage review can show that it's not the same as what's in the report and that the federation takes it into consideration because it's huge evidence."
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Madrid are thought to be weighing up whether to appeal the red card, with Bellingham potentially facing a 12-game absence if the decision stands.