Barcelona coach Xavi branded his sending off against Atletico Madrid “unnecessary and unfair” after being sent to the stands in the first half.
Xavi saw red for his complaints to the referee during the match but said after the game he felt he had been harshly treated by the match official.
“The important thing is the team. They tell me that they are expelling me for my gestures. I have not said anything at all.
“I try to have respect. I gesture because I am passionate and I want my team to win.