Union Berlin coach Bjelica to miss three games for Sane shove

Union Berlin coach Nenad Bjelica has been suspended for three matches by the German FA (DFB) on Thursday, after shoving Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane in the face.

Bjelica shoved Sane twice during Wednesday's 1-0 loss to the German champions in Munich, after the winger came to the sideline for a throw-in.

The Union boss was shown a straight red card over the incident.

Nenad Bjelica 🆚 Sane pic.twitter.com/36SV4ycvUq

— Epic Red Cards (@epicredcards) January 25, 2024

The DFB sports tribunal on Thursday imposed a three-match suspension, along with a fine of 25 000 euros for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Union issued a statement in response saying it agreed to the punishment and would therefore not appeal.

After the game, Bjelica said Sane "came and provoked me" but admitted "what I did shouldn't be tolerated. I understand the red card."

Champions League participants after finishing fourth last season, Union are currently in 15th place, one spot and three points above the relegation places.

Bjelica will miss Sunday's home clash with last-placed Darmstadt, alongside away games at RB Leipzig and Mainz.