Melbourne City midfielder Tolgay Arslan handed two-match ban

Melbourne City midfielder Tolgay Arslan will be unavailable for the club’s next two Isuzu UTE A-League fixtures following a disciplinary hearing by Football Australia. Arslan was sent off for “Use of offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures against a Match Official” after City’s 4-2 loss to Perth Glory on February 2. The 33-year-old already missed the team’s previous match against Brisbane Roar and will now miss the Melbourne Derby against Melbourne Victory and the round 18 clash with Sydney FC. He is expected to return for City’s match against Macarthur FC on March 1.

The incident and suspension

During the match against Perth Glory, Arslan’s behavior towards a Match Official resulted in his sending off. Football Australia conducted a disciplinary hearing to address the issue and subsequently handed a three-match suspension to Arslan. As he has already missed one match, he will serve the remaining two matches of his ban.

The missed matches

Arslan’s absence will impact Melbourne City’s upcoming matches. The Melbourne Derby against Melbourne Victory is a highly anticipated clash in the Isuzu UTE A-League, and City will have to face their rivals without one of their key midfielders. In addition, the round 18 clash with Sydney FC is another crucial fixture, making Arslan’s absence a significant blow to the team.

Possible appeal

Although Arslan has the right to appeal the sanctions, he must do so within seven days of the committee’s decision. If he chooses to appeal, the case will be reviewed by Football Australia’s independent Appeals Committee. Whether Arslan decides to pursue an appeal is yet to be seen.

Looking ahead

Once his suspension is over, Arslan will be available for selection in City’s match against Macarthur FC on March 1. The midfielder’s return will be a welcome boost for the team, as they aim to get back to winning ways and maintain their position in the Isuzu UTE A-League standings.

Conclusion

Tolgay Arslan’s two-match ban is a consequence of his actions during Melbourne City’s match against Perth Glory. The midfielder’s absence will be felt in the upcoming Melbourne Derby and the clash with Sydney FC. However, his return for the match against Macarthur FC provides some relief for the team. Whether Arslan chooses to appeal the sanctions remains uncertain, but the decision of Football Australia’s independent Appeals Committee will ultimately determine the outcome.

This article is summarized by a helpful assistant.