Sevilla have condemned LaLiga's decision to hand manager Matias Almeyda a seven-match ban following his dismissal in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Alaves, calling the punishment 'excessive'. The Argentine coach was sent off late in the match after gesturing in frustration at a refereeing decision, then refused to leave the pitch, prompting further sanctions.
The Spanish football federation (Rfef) imposed the ban, which includes three matches for contempt and disregard for the referee, two for complaints to officials, one for not leaving immediately, and another for conduct disregarding public order. It is the longest managerial suspension in LaLiga in 12 years.
Sevilla confirmed they will appeal the decision, stating: 'The club's legal department will exhaust all available avenues to appeal what it considers an excessive sanction, both in terms of the number of matches imposed and the way the facts have been described.'
The ban could see Almeyda miss half of Sevilla's remaining league games as the club fights to avoid relegation. Currently just two points above the drop zone, Sevilla are part of a six-way battle for survival, a stark contrast to their Europa League triumph three years ago.
