The disciplinary action stems from a breach of a specific protocol established in the wake of an incident involving Vinícius Júnior. Earlier this year, the Real Madrid star alleged that an opponent had racially abused him while obscuring their mouth with a jersey during a Champions League encounter. The tribunal's ruling underscores a strict enforcement of these guidelines regarding conduct on the pitch.
Suspension Details and Impact on Santos
The two-match ban for the mouth-covering incident is in addition to a separate one-match suspension Neymar is currently serving due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Consequently, the forward will be sidelined for a total of three matches. He is set to miss the upcoming league clash against Palmeiras this Wednesday as part of his initial disciplinary obligations.
Following the completion of his current suspension, the additional two-match penalty means that Neymar is not expected to return to competitive action until late November. The ruling has significant implications for Santos as they navigate the remainder of their league campaign without their key forward.
In response to the tribunal's decision, both the player and his club, Santos, retain the right to appeal the suspension related to the mouth-covering incident. As of now, the player remains unavailable for selection while the disciplinary process concludes.
