Barcelona News: Sergi Roberto Hit With Four-Game Ban

Barcelona defender Sergio Roberto’s season has come to a premature end after he was handed a four-game ban following his red card against Real Madrid on Sunday.

The 26-year-old was sent to the showers early following a clash with Real left-back Marcelo.

“Sergi Roberto caught me in the face,” Marcelo had stated after the game and replays later confirmed there was indeed malicious intent from the Barca defender.

The referee, Alejandro Hernández Hernández, described the incident in the Clásico thus:

“In the 44th minute, the player (20) Sergi Roberto Carnicer, was sent off for the following reason: Hitting an opponent with his arm, with the use of excessive force, the ball not being at a distance from being played.”

'Sergi Roberto didn't even touch Marcelo's face' pic.twitter.com/j6fGLbKnhg

— Rk (@RkFutbol) May 8, 2018

The Clasico was again an ill-tempered affair and the referee came under heavy fire for a number of decisions that he got wrong on the night. Barcelona fans were particularly incensed when Gareth Bale got away with a horrible tackle on Samuel Umtiti.

Red Card for Sergi Roberto for a random hand movement but nothing for Bale for this. Standards. #ElClásico #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/nG6ZfoQrY6

— Deon Britto (@DeonBritto) May 6, 2018

What now?

The Catalans have since appealed against the ban.

This, however, shouldn’t have much of an effect on Barcelona’s season – having already claimed the La Liga crown. This, in fact, opens up a chance for Nelson Semedo – who should be Barca’s first choice in the remainder of the games.

For Roberto, it’s now a long wait as he waits for the hearing of the appeal as he also hopes to make it to the final 23-man Spanish squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

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