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Groningen Says Referee Backs Robben After Youth Match Confrontation

The club frames the episode as a warning about parental interference at youth matches.

Overview

  • Video from an under-14 game shows Arjen Robben arguing with referee Jan Faessen and pushing TV presenter Wilfred Genee when he stepped in.
  • Genee, attending as a parent, says Robben swore at the official during the first half and confronted him at the break.
  • FC Groningen issued a statement denying Robben mistreated the referee and said Faessen confirmed that account.
  • Faessen described changing a goal-kick decision to a corner and said he discussed that call with Robben.
  • The club says parents should not enter coach–referee talks, adds Robben will not comment further, and no disciplinary action has been reported.