Mane accepts consequences after clash with Sane, Tuchel says case closed

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FOOTBALL Mane accepts consequences after clash with Sane, Tuchel says case closed

Shafic Kiyaga 17:30 - 20.04.2023

Mane was fined and missed Bayern's Bundesliga game against Hoffenheim as part of a one-match suspension after hitting Sane following their defeat to Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final first leg last week.

Bayern Munich's coach Thomas Tuchel has stated that Sadio Mane has fully accepted the consequences of his altercation with teammate Leroy Sane, and the case is now closed.

Mane was fined and missed Bayern's Bundesliga game against Hoffenheim as part of a one-match suspension after hitting Sane following their defeat to Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final first leg last week.

The incident occurred after Bayern's 3-0 loss to City, where Mane and Sane were also seen arguing on the pitch, and had to be separated by their teammates.

Tuchel, in a news conference, stated that he is the first one to defend Mane, whom he has known for a long time and considers a top professional.

"Everyone can make a mistake. It went against the team's code of conduct. That's clear," Tuchel said.

Tuchel also mentioned that Mane complained about the way Sane spoke to him after the defeat, leading to the altercation between the two players.

Tuchel emphasized the importance of quickly resolving the issue and clearing the air within the team.

"It was important that it was cleared quickly. That had a cleansing effect. It was important that he remained in training even if he had a one-match ban.”

“Because we had to deal with it and it was a blatant incident we had to clear before the next training," Tuchel added.

"We are not the first and most likely not the last for it to happen to," Tuchel added, acknowledging that such incidents can occur in football, but it is crucial to address them promptly and move forward as a team.

Mane, who joined Bayern last year and has won the African Footballer of the Year award twice, returned for Bayern’s second leg tie, making a substitute appearance, replacing Sane.

And it looked like the altercation was already behind them as they patted hands during the incident in the 64th minute, and was heavily involved in the incident that cause a penalty which Joshua Kimmich tucked away to secure a 1-1 draw.

Bayern looks to move forward and find stability after a challenging few weeks, including their shock exit from the German Cup at home to Freiburg.

Bayern Munich is currently two points clear at the top of the Bundesliga with seven games remaining, and Tuchel hopes that the resolution of the incident will allow the team to train in a positive way as they continue their pursuit of the league title.