Following the controversy surrounding Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur, the club has officially decided to appeal his punishment.
This season took a twist yesterday when the Spurs released a statement acknowledging Bentancur's culpability but arguing that the sanction imposed by the Football Association (FA) was excessively harsh.
On Wednesday, the club confirmed their intention to challenge the decision. However, during the appeal process, Bentancur remains suspended from domestic competitions.
Speaking about the situation, Tottenham’s manager Ange Postecoglou offered his perspective on the matter.
Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou makes supportive Rodrigo Bentancur claim
“He’s one of the ones whose football has gone up a level. But we understood this was kind of coming and there was an acceptance from everyone that whatever the sort of penalties were," said Postecoglou to Sky Sports. “I fully support the club’s decision to appeal the severity of the ban, but ultimately we know it’s going to be for X number of games.”
The manager expressed unwavering support for Bentancur following the seven-match suspension issued by the FA, which also included a £100,000 fine.
Postecoglou revealed that Bentancur has taken full responsibility for his actions, acknowledging his mistake and accepting the consequences.
The coach described Bentancur as an outstanding teammate and a person of exceptional character who made an error in judgement.
“He’s an unbelievable team-mate. He’s a person of the utmost character that has made a mistake. I think when that happens, our role is to support him in any way we can,” Postecoglou said.
The suspension stems from a comment Bentancur made during an interview, which the FA deemed a violation of its regulations on discriminatory language.
The seven-match ban excludes him from key Premier League fixtures and the Carabao Cup, though he remains eligible to feature in the Europa League.
Bentancur is expected to play in Tottenham’s matches against Roma on 28 November and Rangers on 12 December.
Bentancur’s absence looms large
Postecoglou praised Bentancur’s recent performances, noting significant improvement in his play over the past few months.
The manager acknowledged that the team would feel his absence in the upcoming fixtures but assured fans that the club would ensure Bentancur remains in peak condition to return to action when his suspension is over.
"I fully support the clubs decision to appeal..."
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 21, 2024
Ange Postecoglou gives his views on Rodrigo Bentancur's seven-match ban for comments he made about his teammate Son Heung-min. pic.twitter.com/wYFgvidCte
Currently sitting 10th in the Premier League, Tottenham faces a monumental challenge this Saturday night as they take on reigning champions Manchester City.
The game will be a real test for Postecoglou’s side, with all the drama and a key player missing.