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Antonio Rudiger is restrained during Real Madrid's Copa del Rey defeat to Barcelona(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)

Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold had an eye-opening glimpse at the inner workings of Real Madrid on Saturday night as they lost 3-2 to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final.

A total of three players, including Alexander-Arnold's good friend Jude Bellingham, were sent off for their actions towards referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea.

With Jules Kounde putting Barca ahead in the latter stages of stoppage time, the Real players lost control as the game concluded.



Lucas Vasquez and Vinicius Jr stormed the field to protest against a decision with the former being sent off.

Shortly afterwards, Antonio Rudiger protested by throwing an object, believed to be ice, at the official which earned him a red card too.

"In the 120th minute, Antonio Rudiger was sent off for the following reason: For throwing an object from the technical area, which missed me," the referee wrote.

"After being shown the red card, he had to be restrained by several members of the coaching staff, displaying an aggressive attitude.

In the 120th minute, Lucas Vasquez was sent off for the following reason: For protesting one of our decisions, entering the field of play for several metres, making gestures of disagreement.

"Jude Bellingham was sent off for the following reason: After the end of the match, he approached our position in an aggressive attitude, having to be restrained by his teammates." Los Blancos' behaviour after the final whistle has been largely criticised in Spain with TV presenter Dani Garrido stating: "I’m deeply saddened by Vinicius and Rudiger’s reaction.

Real Madrid players confront the referee during their Copa del Rey defeat to Barcelona(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)

"Rudiger’s attitude, especially, was deplorable.

Lucas may have insulted, Vinicius came off like a madman, but what Rudiger did is unforgivable, and he’s going to get a historic ban."

Real Madrid had already been criticised before the match after their official TV channel broadcasted a video highlighting the win percentages of Barcelona and Los Blancos when the 39-year-old has officiated, as well as alleged mistakes and his lack of experience in the Champions League or FIFA competitions.