Bayern Munich has imposed a hefty fine on Sadio Mane following his reported altercation with teammate Leroy Sane, which took place in the dressing room after their 3-0 defeat in the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.
According to German media, Mane and Sane had to be separated after an argument, during which Mane allegedly punched Sane on the lip.
The incident originated from a disagreement on the field, which later escalated when Mane took offense to Sane’s manner of speaking.
Bayern confirmed the reports were indeed true and announced their summer signing was to be temporarily suspended and omitted from the squad for the upcoming Bundesliga game against Hoffenheim.
They also said he would be fined for his actions, but did not disclose the amount. However,GOALsay the Senegal international will be fined in the region of €500,000 (£442,000) for his behaviour.
Sane, meanwhile, was seen covering his face as he walked to the Bayern bus a day on from the incident.
Reports suggested that Bayern Munich was considering selling Sadio Mane following his altercation with teammate Leroy Sane.
However, it is believed that Sane, who previously played for Manchester City and Schalke, intervened and spoke to the higher-ups at Bayern, potentially preventing Mane from being sold.
SPORT1claim the Germany international asked officials not to give Mane too harsh a punishment in order to maintain focus for the rest of the campaign.
From a Bayern perspective, they now consider the matter closed. New manager Thomas Tuchel defended Mane and branded him an “absolute professional” and says the situation is “settled”.
Asked about Mane’s punishment, he told a press conference: “That’s settled. A game and a fine are the consequences of what happened.
“The way both players involved dealt with it, the way the other players dealt with it, it had a cleansing effect.
“We had a positive atmosphere yesterday and today. I’m here to defend Mane.
“I’ve known him for a very long time and only know him as an absolute professional. I also know his entourage.
“He has never been guilty of anything.”
Mane signed for Bayern in a £35 million switch in the summer and has scored 11 goals in all competitions for the Bavarian giants.