RFEF Hands Athletic’s Álex Padilla Three-Game League Ban and Valverde Four After Betis Flashpoint

Spain’s disciplinary committee confirmed on September 3 a three-match suspension for reserve goalkeeper Álex Padilla and a four-match ban for Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde. Padilla received a direct red card in the 99th minute for throwing a ball onto the field from the bench during Betis vs. Athletic, an offense sanctioned under Article 107.2. The goalkeeper will miss Athletic’s next three LaLiga fixtures against Alavés, Valencia and Girona. Valverde’s punishment stems from protests and gestures deemed disrespectful toward the referee, with the resolution citing articles addressing dissent and contempt. Athletic listed Padilla in its 25-man Champions League squad, and the domestic suspension does not automatically apply to UEFA matches, leaving him eligible for the September 16 game at Arsenal.

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