Barcelona’s main man sidelined for two matches as club prepares appeal – report | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has officially been handed a two-match ban by the RFEF Disciplinary Committee following his expulsion during Barcelona’s match against Real Betis last Saturday, reports Mundo Deportivo.

The decision, announced on Wednesday, means Flick will not be able to manage from the sidelines until mid-January 2025.

However, Barcelona have ten working days to appeal this ruling and has decided to proceed with filing an appeal to the Appeals Court.

What’s the story?

Flick’s dismissal stemmed from his reaction to a penalty decision by referee Muniz Ruiz in the 66th minute of the match.

The penalty, awarded against Frenkie de Jong for his challenge on Vitor Roque, sparked visible protests from Flick, who left the technical area in frustration.

The incident was documented in the referee’s report as an act of shouting and gesticulating in protest against the official’s decision.

Hansi Flick was sent off against Real Betis. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)

The two-match suspension falls under Article 127 of the RFEF Disciplinary Code, which outlines punishments for protesting against referees.

According to the regulation, such actions are penalised with suspensions ranging from two to three matches or up to one month if no more serious offence is committed.

What next for Hansi Flick?

As a result, Flick will miss two key fixtures in La Liga. He will not be on the bench when Barcelona hosts Leganes next weekend or for the crucial clash against Atletico Madrid on 21 December.

Furthermore, due to the packed football calendar, this suspension ensures he won’t return to manage a league game until mid-January 2025.

The schedule includes several important matches for Barcelona during Flick’s ban. The first weekend of January is dedicated to the Copa del Rey round of 32, where Barcelona is set to face Barbastro.

The following week features the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, including a potential semi-final and final.

Additionally, the Copa del Rey round of 16 is set for mid-January if Barcelona advances. Fortunately for Flick, the suspension does not apply to these competitions, allowing him to participate without restriction.

His return to the La Liga bench is expected for matchday 20, when Barcelona visits Getafe on 18 or 19 January.