Veteran Referee Gil Manzano: The Unyielding Enforcer of Football Drama

Veteran referee Gil Manzano has made headlines over the years for his no-nonsense approach on the football field, with some of the game's biggest stars feeling the sting of his decisions. From Lionel Messi to Neymar and Jude Bellingham, Manzano has not shied away from making tough calls that have left players and fans alike talking long after the final whistle blows. One of the most memorable encounters involving Manzano was his clash with Messi during a 2-2 draw between Barcelona and Girona in 2018. Messi, known for his sportsmanship, famously refused to shake Manzano's hand after the match, expressing his displeasure at the decision to send off his teammate Clement Lenglet. This incident marked the beginning of a strained relationship between the Argentine superstar and the seasoned referee. Manzano added another rare entry to his resume when he became the only referee to show Messi a red card during his illustrious career at Barcelona. In a tense moment during the 2021 Supercopa final against Athletic Bilbao, Manzano did not hesitate to send off Messi after a VAR review confirmed an off-the-ball incident involving Asier Villalibre. This decision left fans in disbelief and added another chapter to the ongoing narrative between the referee and the footballing icon. Beyond the controversies involving Messi, Manzano has also found himself at the center of other high-profile incidents. From overseeing a game where Racing Santander's players refused to play, to becoming the first European referee to officiate at the Copa America, Manzano's career has been filled with diverse experiences that have tested his resolve and decision-making skills. Despite facing criticism and scrutiny, Manzano's reputation as a top-level referee remains intact. His journey from a young FIFA international referee to officiating El Clasico matches and other prestigious fixtures showcases his dedication to the sport and his ability to handle pressure-packed situations with poise. Most recently, Manzano found himself embroiled in controversy once again when he sent off Jude Bellingham during a match between Real Madrid and Valencia. Bellingham's exasperated reaction to a decision led to a red card and subsequent ban, highlighting the fine line that referees like Manzano walk in the heat of the moment. As Manzano continues to navigate the ups and downs of being a top referee, his name remains synonymous with authority and unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the game. Love him or hate him, one thing is for certain - when Gil Manzano is in charge, you can expect nothing less than a match filled with drama and unpredictability.