Bayern Munich managerThomas Tuchel has defended Sadio Mane following his altercation with teammate Leroy Sane, saying that the Senegalese has duly apologised for his behaviour.
Mane and Sane had a bust-up in the dressing room following Bayern Munich’s 3-0 loss to Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal first leg on April 11. The former Liverpool star punched Sane, reportedly leaving a mark on the Germany international’s face. It’s believed that the pair had to be dragged away by their teammates.
Bayern Munich have since suspended Mane for violating the code of conduct. A club statement read:
“Sadio Mane, 31, will not be in the FC Bayern squad for the home game against 1899 Hoffenheim next Saturday. The reason is misconduct by Mane after FC Bayern’s Champions League game at Manchester City. In addition, Mane will receive a fine.”
At a pre-match press conference ahead of the clash against Hoffenheim on Saturday (April 15), Tuchel defended the Senegal star, calling him an exemplary professional.
“I’m here to defend Mane. I’ve known him for a very long time and only know him as an absolute professional. I also know his entourage. He has never been guilty of anything,” said Tuchel (via iMiaSanMia). “It was against the code of conduct; he recognised it and apologised.”
Tuchel has confirmed that Mane’s suspension will be for one game only. That means that he should be in contention to play the Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Manchester City on April 19.
While the reason behind the altercation has not been revealed, reports have claimed that Mane’s outburst was fueled by the way Sane spoke to him after the defeat in Manchester.
