Matias Almeyda handed seven-match ban, longest for a manager in 12 years | OneFootball

Sevilla manager Matias Almeyda has received a seven-match suspension from the RFEF Disciplinary Committee after his red card against Alaves, ruling him off the touchline for the next two months. The sanction was issued on Wednesday.

He was dismissed during the 1-1 draw after protesting a decision by referee Iosu Galech, then confronted the official and repeatedly said, ‘Why are you sending me off?’

According to Diario AS, the suspension comprises two games for protesting at the referee, one for failing to leave the pitch after dismissal, three for a repeated derogatory attitude towards the referee, and one for disorderly conduct.

It is the longest touchline ban for a manager since 2014, when Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone received eight matches in the Spanish Supercup against Real Madrid after repeated protests.

Almeyda is set to miss Liga fixtures against Getafe, Real Betis, Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona, Valencia, Real Oviedo and Atletico Madrid. In theory he would return at Levante on 22 April at the Ciutat de Valencia. It is presumed assistant Omar Zarif will take charge in his absence.

Juanlu Sanchez received a one-game ban after his second yellow in the Alaves match. Midfielder Joan Jordan was also sent off from the bench and will miss trips to Getafe on Sunday and to Real Betis for the derby at the Benito Villamarin.

Sevilla sit 13th, two points above RCD Mallorca in the relegation places. Almeyda will miss half of their remaining 14 league games as they battle to stay up.

Source: Football Espana