Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane was seen warming up with a visibly swollen lip ahead of their clash with Hoffenheim on Saturday, April 15 at the Allianz Arena Stadium. The German footballer was allegedly punched in the face by Sadio Mane during Bayern's 3-0 loss to Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.
Mane and Sane were spotted arguing following Bayern's loss to Man City, and the former reportedly punched his teammate, forcing Bayern players to separate them inside the dressing room after an altercation between them. The Senegal international had complained about the manner Sane spoke to him following Bayern's worst Champions League defeat since a 3-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.
The duo were spotted arguing as they walked off the pitch at the Etihad Stadium, and their dispute escalated when they went down the tunnel. Following the shameful incident, Bayern stated that Mane will not be included in the squad for the clash against Hoffenheim and has been fined.
“Sadio Mane will not be included in the FC Bayern squad for this Saturday’s home match against 1899 Hoffenheim. This is due to his misconduct after Bayern’s Champions League match at Manchester City. Mane will also be given a fine," the club said in a statement.
A limit was crossed that we don’t want: Bayern coach
According to German media, the 27-year-old had suffered a cut lip in the altercation. Reports also say that Mane has been fined around 500,000 euros ($550,000). Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel also confirmed the Senegal star's suspension, saying Mane crossed the limit.
"Of course, it concerned us. A limit was crossed that we don’t want and that we didn’t tolerate. “But we cleared the air. There was an apology which was absolutely credible… The matter is dealt with," Tuchel told a press conference.
“I am the first one to defend Sadio. I have known him a long time and I know him as a top pro. He is football pure. He has my deepest trust after the mistake he made. Everyone can make a mistake. It went against the team’s code of conduct. That’s clear," he added.
Here's how fans reacted:
Mane's best attack in 2023😭
— Jan (@Jan09271940) April 15, 2023
Mane should be banned forever, nice guy only in front of camera
— Adi (@AdiMCFC) April 15, 2023
You know that shit is sore as fuck.
— Sam (@S4MJJ) April 15, 2023
Mane is a disgrace
— 🔴 (@faroukoj) April 15, 2023
That was a big punch
— Reinhard😎 (@reinhardfox3) April 15, 2023
If you can talk, you need to able to back it up with your hands too. Sane is soft, and Mane proved that.
— Messiopath⚓️ (@Messiopath) April 15, 2023
Mane owns this bum😭😭😭
— simi 👨🏾🌾 (@simiafc) April 15, 2023
Never joke with an African 😪
— wizzy (@wizzy59429321) April 15, 2023
Sadio mane doing all that during Ramadan it’s actually crazy disappointing
— Trey (@UTDTreyyyy) April 15, 2023
Mane said pic.twitter.com/C6ZmwS1mAC
— Generic User (@GenericUser1011) April 15, 2023