THE GUY JUST can’t catch a break lately.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been slapped with a two-match ban from UEFA for breaching the terms of a previous Champions League suspension.
Wenger was found guilty of failing to abide by rules surrounding his original ban – imposed after last season’s last 16 defeat to Barcelona.
Officials say Wenger passed messages to staff during his side’s Champions League play-off first leg against Udinese last week.
European chiefs have also fined the Frenchman €10,000 for the improper conduct of their officials during the match. Wenger and the club have the right to lodge appeals against the decisions.
A statement from UEFA reads: “The UEFA control and disciplinary Body has suspended manager Arsene Wenger from carrying out his duties at Arsenal FC’s next two UEFA competition matches.
“Today’s decision was taken in relation to the Arsenal manager not abiding by the decision of the control and disciplinary body during the English club’s Champions League play-off game against Udinese last Tuesday, August 16.
“Wenger is therefore suspended for Arsenal’s second-leg match against Udinese in Italy on Wednesday and then the next UEFA competition fixture for which he would be eligible.
“The control and disciplinary body has also decided to fine Arsenal 10,000 euros for improper conduct by its officials. An appeal may be lodged against these decisions within three days of the dispatch of the reasoned decision.”
