Sevilla coach suspended for 7 matches: Details of the harsh penalty and its reasons

In a decision described by the Spanish press as a "devastating blow" to the Andalusian club, the Spanish Football Federation's Competition Committee issued a severe seven-match suspension for Sevilla's coach, Matías Almeyda. This decision stems from the tumultuous events that marred the team's recent La Liga match against Deportivo Alavés, leaving the club facing a significant challenge in the upcoming rounds.

Details of the unprecedented disciplinary penalty

According to the widely circulated Spanish newspaper Marca, the punishment was not the result of a single act, but rather the culmination of a series of violations documented by the referee in his official report. The punishment, considered one of the harshest this season, was detailed as follows:

• Two matches: due to blatant and inappropriate protesting against the referee's decisions.
• One match: as a result of the coach refusing to comply with the dismissal order and going directly to the dressing room, and remaining in the vicinity of the stadium.
• Three matches: A severe penalty due to repeated situations that the committee considered "disrespectful" towards the refereeing team.
• One match: due to conduct contrary to public order and sportsmanship.

Legal context and the strictness of the Spanish Federation

This punishment comes within the context of a general trend by the Spanish Football Federation and the Referees Committee to enforce strict discipline on the pitch, particularly regarding objections to refereeing decisions. Sanctions exceeding four matches are rare and usually associated with cumulative misconduct or direct insults, suggesting that the referee's report was very harsh on the Sevilla coach's behavior. This type of decision is generally intended to deter coaches and players from crossing the line with referees, a policy rigorously enforced in major European leagues.

The repercussions of the decision on Sevilla's journey

Sevilla FC faces a genuine crisis as a result of this extended suspension, currently sitting in 13th place in the La Liga standings with only 26 points. With a worrying record of 12 defeats, 7 wins, and 5 draws, the manager's absence from the sidelines for nearly two months could negatively impact match management and player direction at a time when the team desperately needs every point to distance themselves from the relegation zone and improve their league position.

The club management's move and next steps

In a swift response, press reports confirmed that Sevilla FC's management will not stand idly by in the face of this harsh punishment. The club's legal team intends to file an urgent appeal with the Appeals Committee, and possibly escalate the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with the aim of reducing the number of matches suspended. The club seeks to demonstrate that some of the incidents mentioned in the report may have been exaggerated or are open to different interpretations, hoping to have their coach reinstated as soon as possible to salvage the team's season.