Sevilla FC have been handed a severe blow following the latest disciplinary decisions from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). After incidents during the league clash against Real Madrid, the Andalusian club will have to cope with significant absences in the coming weeks.
Six-match ban for Marcao
The harshest punishment has been reserved for central defender Marcao, who has received a six-match suspension. The sanction stems from his behaviour during and after the match, where he was sent off and later involved in further incidents directed at the referee.
The breakdown of the suspension includes:
- One match for the second yellow card and resulting red card
- Four matches for verbal abuse, insults and offensive behaviour towards the referee
- One additional match for conduct deemed contrary to sporting order
According to the referee’s report, Marcao approached the official in an intimidating manner after being sent off and had to be restrained by his teammates. On his way to the dressing room, he reportedly used offensive language and later kicked a ball located near the fourth official’s area.
Appeals rejected by the committee
Sevilla submitted appeals supported by video evidence, arguing that the expression used by the Brazilian defender was a generic exclamation in Portuguese rather than a direct insult. However, the Disciplinary Committee ruled that there was no clear factual error in the referee’s report and upheld its presumption of accuracy.
As a result, the original sanctions were confirmed in full, leaving Sevilla without one of their defensive options for an extended period.
Almeyda also sanctioned
The club’s difficulties do not end there. Head coach Matías Almeyda has also been handed a one-match suspension after receiving two yellow cards and being sent off during the same fixture.
Sevilla facing a challenging period
These decisions significantly complicate Sevilla’s immediate future, with both a key defender and the head coach unavailable for upcoming matches. The club now faces a demanding period as they attempt to manage suspensions and maintain competitive stability in the league.
