Bernardo Silva criticises referee after Real Madrid’s win at Valencia

Bernardo Silva has criticised the refereeing after Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Valencia at Mestalla on Saturday in round 12 of La Liga.

The Portugal international, who plays for Real Madrid, said Valencia’s physical approach had been encouraged by the officials.

“Valencia played with a great deal of aggression, far too much, because the referee allowed them to be aggressive,” Silva told reporters after the match.

The game featured a series of strong challenges from the home side. Several Valencia players were booked before captain Jose Gaya was shown a straight red card in the 79th minute for a challenge on Kylian Mbappe.

Real Madrid had already established control by then, with Federico Valverde opening the scoring in the 28th minute. Arda Guler doubled their advantage eight minutes later, before Mbappe completed the victory with the third goal in the 75th minute.

The result leaves Real Madrid second in the La Liga table on 30 points, level with leaders Barcelona. Barcelona are due to visit third-placed Atletico Madrid on Sunday, with Atletico on 28 points.

Silva also spoke about the prospect of Real Madrid returning to play at the Santiago Bernabeu, where he hopes the team can continue its winning run.

“We cannot wait to return to the Bernabeu and continue our winning streak there. I know the fans are waiting for us too,” he said.

The midfielder has recently become Portugal’s new captain after legendary team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football following a dispute involving manager Jorge Jesus.