AS Monaco midfielder Mamadou Coulibaly could face a suspension after his goal celebration during the 1-1 draw against Le Mans prompted an intervention from French football’s National Ethics Council.
The 22-year-old opened the scoring in the 40th minute at the Stade Marie-Marvingt on Sunday, November 8, taking advantage of a defensive error to put Monaco ahead. However, attention quickly shifted from his goal to the celebration that followed, when he ran towards the corner and mimicked a throat-cutting gesture by moving his thumb across his neck.
The incident attracted criticism because of its similarity to a celebration performed by Monaco teammate Paris Brunner against Strasbourg in September. Brunner subsequently received a four-match suspension, with two matches suspended.
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Coulibaly attempted to explain his actions during a half-time interview with Ligue 1+, saying the celebration had been suggested by a friend. He later expressed regret, apologising to anyone who may have been offended and explaining that he had not anticipated the gesture would provoke such a reaction.
The matter has now been formally referred to the disciplinary commission of the French Professional Football League (LFP) by the National Ethics Council.
In its decision, the CNE acknowledged that Coulibaly had not directed the gesture towards the opposition supporters and had subsequently apologised. However, it maintained that these circumstances did not remove the seriousness of the action, which could represent a breach of football’s principles of respect, self-control and exemplary conduct.
The council’s intervention follows the disciplinary proceedings against Brunner, although Coulibaly’s case will be considered separately. No suspension has yet been confirmed, with the final decision resting with the LFP’s disciplinary commission.
Monaco’s sporting difficulties continued at Le Mans, where the visitors were unable to hold on to their advantage. Erwan Colas equalised in the 90th minute, leaving the Principality side with a 1-1 draw despite Coulibaly’s opening goal.
The disciplinary case now adds another issue for Monaco to contend with as the club awaits the league’s decision on the midfielder’s controversial celebration.
