Orlando SC Star Luis Muriel Suspended for Two Matches
Orlando SC forward Luis Muriel has been handed a two-match suspension by Major League Soccer (MLS) following an incident during the team’s recent match against New York Red Bulls. The suspension comes after an investigation into Muriel’s actions in the second half of the game, where he was involved in an altercation with an opposing player. The league determined that Muriel’s conduct violated the MLS Code of Conduct, leading to the suspension.
The altercation, which occurred in the 63rd minute of the match, saw Muriel involved in a heated exchange with New York Red Bulls defender Andrew Gutman. While the specifics of the incident were initially unclear, video footage revealed that Muriel appeared to make a gesture that was deemed unsportsmanlike. Despite an initial apology from the Colombian international, the MLS disciplinary committee took swift action, imposing the two-match ban as a preventative measure.
Orlando SC, which is currently competing for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, will miss Muriel’s attacking presence in their next two crucial matches. The 28-year-old has been one of the team’s standout players this season, contributing significantly to their offensive lineup with 12 goals and 7 assists in 21 appearances. His absence will be a major blow to the team’s hopes of securing a postseason berth.
In response to the suspension, Orlando SC issued a statement expressing support for the league’s decision and affirmed their commitment to maintaining a positive and competitive environment both on and off the field. Muriel himself expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging that his actions did not align with the values of the club and league.
The two-match suspension is set to begin immediately, with Muriel missing Orlando SC’s upcoming fixtures against Atlanta United and Columbus Crew.
