Halilhodzic Faces Potential Season-Ending Suspension in French League
Serbian coach Vahid Halilhodzic faces the risk of a penalty that could prevent him from leading Nantes until the end of the season. This comes in the wake of events during his team's 1-1 draw against Brest.
According to L'Equipe, the coach's case is scheduled to be reviewed via video by the disciplinary committee tomorrow, Tuesday, to determine the nature of the potential sanction against him.
The incident stems from Halilhodzic's intense anger after his defender, Dehmaine Tabibou, was sent off following a VAR review. Referee Guillaume Paradis subsequently dismissed Halilhodzic from the touchline.
During the tense moment, the coach was seen clashing with fourth official Florent Batta before his player, Chidozie Awaziem, intervened to separate them. Halilhodzic continued his verbal protests towards the main referee, repeatedly asking, "Aren't you ashamed?"
After the match, the coach expressed his extreme anger in press statements, saying: "I am angry, I did not understand the red card decision. Every time I don't understand the referee's decisions. The referee told me I might be suspended if I kept talking, but I don't care, I can be suspended for up to 10 years because I'm done with football, but when I see injustice, I express my anger."
He added: "I wanted to understand the reason for the red card; there must be respect. Who does this referee think he is?"
Due to these actions, Halilhodzic could face a severe penalty. Disciplinary regulations stipulate the potential application of the article on "excessive or inappropriate conduct," which could result in a two-match suspension, or the article on "threatening or intimidating behavior," which could lead to a suspension of up to five months.
Halilhodzic is known for his controversial statements, having previously made several remarks after his departure from the Moroccan national team that sparked much debate. He continues this approach with his current team, expressing strong opinions and sharp comments after matches.
