Jude Bellingham risks retrospective ban for unseen slap of Argentina player

Jude Bellingham could land himself in hot water after appearing to slap Valentin Barco following England’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina.

The Three Lions’ hopes of World Cup glory came to a crushing end in the semi-finals on Wednesday, as holders Argentina staged a dramatic comeback in the closing stages.

BBC

And Bellingham‘s frustrations look to have got the better of himself as he took out his anger on Strasbourg left-back Barco.

England were just minutes away from sealing their place in a first World Cup final since 1966 following Anthony Gordon’s 55th minute opener.

But Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute with a stunning strike from distance.

And Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez then scored a stoppage-time winner to set-up a final meeting between Argentina and Spain.

Incoming ban?

As England’s stars were visibility emotional following the full-time whistle, holders Argentina gleefully celebrated reaching back-to-back finals.

Barco, an unused substitute in the match, could be seen directly celebrating in front of the Three Lions squad as he sprinted on the pitch.

It was something that Bellingham may not have taken kindly too, as cameras caught him approaching the former Brighton man.

And he appeared to slap him on the back on the head – resulting in Barco immediately shoving him away.

But Bellingham wasn’t done there, as he proceeded to get in the face of the 21-year-old, with Nicolas Otamendi this time pushing him back.

The Real Madrid midfielder, who was given a 6/10 in Adrian Durham’s player ratings from the game, now faces a retrospective ban should the incident be investigated.

Getty

Bellingham wasn’t the only England star that was involved in a post-match confrontation.

Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers had to be held back by his teammates after taking umbrage to the Argentina squad.

Rogers could be seen angrily pointing at matchwinner Martinez and Argentina’s back-up goalkeeper Juan Musso.

Among the peacemakers looking to calm down proceedings were Ivan Toney, James Trafford and Dean Henderson.

Meanwhile, there were unsavoury scenes in New York following England’s heartbreaking loss.

Fans have been seen scrapping on the streets with supporters expressing their anger.

Attention will now turn towards Thomas Tuchel‘s position as England manager, with the German having a contract through to Euro 2028.

But the former Blues boss has a World Cup performance clause included in his contract, which could see him replaced in the dugout.