Sevilla Coach Almeyda Handed 7-Match Ban After Referee Confrontation

Sevilla manager Matias Almeyda has been hit with a significant seven-match ban following his dismissal and subsequent on-pitch confrontation with the referee during last weekend’s LaLiga draw against Alaves.

The 52-year-old Argentine coach was sent off for protesting a decision at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán stadium. However, rather than leaving the pitch, Almeyda proceeded to march onto the field and remonstrated angrily with the match official for over a minute.

A statement released by the Spanish football federation’s disciplinary committee outlined the reasons for the lengthy suspension. Almeyda received a two-game ban for his initial protests, an additional game for failing to leave the pitch after being sent off, three games for an “attitude of contempt” towards the officials, and a further game for unsporting conduct.

The ban means Almeyda will miss half of Sevilla’s remaining 14 LaLiga matches. Currently, Sevilla sit in 13th position in the league, just two points above the relegation zone, making Almeyda’s absence a considerable blow for the club as they navigate the crucial latter stages of the season.