Source:
https://scmp.com/sport/soccer/article/2116655/milans-bonucci-given-two-game-ban-elbowing-serie-soccer-match
Sport/ Football

AC Milan’s Leonardo Bonucci given two-game ban for elbowing; misses Juventus clash

The Italian international sees red for elbow on Genoa’s Aleandro Rosi after consultation with the video assistant referee

AC Milan defender Leonardo Bonucci, left, speaks with referee Piero Giacomelli, centre, after receiving a red card during a Serie A soccer match between AC Milan and Genoa, at the Giuseppe Meazza stadium in Milan, Italy. He was given a two-game ban. Photo: AP

AC Milan captain Leonardo Bonucci has been given a two-game ban for elbowing and will miss their clash against his former club Juventus, the Lega Serie A said on Monday.

The Italian international defender saw red for elbowing Genoa’s Aleandro Rosi after consultation with the video assistant referee during Sunday’s goalless draw.

The Lega Serie A found Bonucci guilty of “grave unsporting conduct” when he “hit the opposing player in the face with an elbow, causing physical damage”.

And the 30-year-old will miss the midweek trip to Chievo, but also the clash against Juventus at San Siro next weekend.

Referee Piero Giacomelli shows the red card to AC Milan defender Leonardo Bonucci (L) against Genoa. Photo: EPA
Referee Piero Giacomelli shows the red card to AC Milan defender Leonardo Bonucci (L) against Genoa. Photo: EPA

Bonucci’s mental coach Alberto Ferrarini revealed earlier on Monday that the defender had “hit rock bottom with his red card”.

“All the attention he received from his move to Milan was beautiful, but it didn’t do him any good,” Ferrarini told Radio 24.

“With his red card yesterday, he hit bottom, but now I’m convinced that there’ll be a rebirth, as if one chapter was closed to open another. He’s hungry about coming back stronger than before.”

Bonucci leaves the pitch after receiving a red. Photo: EPA
Bonucci leaves the pitch after receiving a red. Photo: EPA

Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic has been given a one-match ban for his two yellow cards against Udinese.

Napoli were fined 15,000 (HK$138,000) after fans threw flares at Inter Milan supporters in their 0-0 draw, while Inter were fined a total of 16,000 for an offensive banner, anti-Neapolitan chanting and a delay to the second half of that match.

Fiorentina were fined 2,000 after fans threw a smoke bomb onto the pitch while SPAL were fined 2,500 after a delay in the second half of their match.