Two-match ban for Boateng

Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng has been handed a two-match suspension for his red card in Bayern’s 2-1 Bundesliga loss to Hannover.

The Bavarians had hoped for leniency from the DFB (German FA), but it was determined on Monday that the 23-year-old’s offence justified a ban.

Bayern have accepted the decision, but made sure to note a perceived double standard in the decisions of referee Manuel Grafe.

“The player, coach, sporting director, and board of FC Bayern have decided to accept this verdict,” a Bayern statement read.

“We nevertheless expressly point out that the entire incident was triggered only by the totally exaggerated and theatrical performance of the Hannover player Sergio Pinto.”

“First, the Hannover player Christian Schulz pushed (Bayern’s Toni Kroos), and then – only in response – our player Boateng pushed back.”

“Schulz received a yellow card, Boateng a red. Why there was a double standard for the same offence is not understandable to us.”

The altercation arose after a clash between Bayern right-back Rafinha and Hannover’s Sergio Pinto during Sunday’s match.

In the ensuing melee, Schulz pushed Kroos, before Boateng responded with a similar shove, prompting his dismissal.

Bayern face Ingolstadt in the DFB Pokal on Wednesday before hosting local rivals Nurnberg on Saturday in the Bundesliga.