OM-Lyon: Mehdi Benatia in turmoil for his comments against refereeing – Media7
Mehdi Benatia, sports advisor to Olympique de Marseille, could be sanctioned after strongly criticizing the refereeing during the OM-Lyon match. The National Ethics Council has transferred his case to the disciplinary commission of the Professional Football League.
The incident dates back to the 5th day of Ligue 1, when Benatia attacked referee Benoît Bastien in the tunnel leading to the locker room, at half-time. Furious after Leonardo Balerdi’s quick expulsion in the 5th minute, Benatia reportedly shouted: “You have to start respecting us… Don’t take people for idiots.”
A Criticism that Moves the Lines
Benatia’s remarks were not insulting, but his attitude was described as “very aggressive” by Patrick Anton, president of the National Ethics Council. Anton emphasizes that Benatia was trying to put pressure on the referee, which remains unacceptable for a club manager.
The sports advisor’s behavior could be costly. Even without insults, questioning the integrity of a referee crosses the line according to French football authorities. Benatia also recalled controversial decisions involving Bastien and Lyon during the previous season, which reinforces the seriousness of the situation.
Towards an Inevitable Sanction?
Benatia is expected in the coming days before the disciplinary commission. A sanction now seems almost inevitable, even if its exact nature remains to be determined. The challenge is twofold: to defend the integrity of refereeing while sending a clear message to club leaders.
French football officials want to avoid such incidents happening again. They see this case as an opportunity to remind people that, in sport as elsewhere, certain limits must not be crossed.
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