Ex-Manchester United and Chelsea Star Juan Sebastián Verón Hit With Six-Month Football Ban

Ex-Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder Juan Sebastián Verón has been banned from all football-related activities for six months by the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The sanction follows Estudiantes de La Plata’s controversial “reverse” guard of honour protest before their cup clash against Rosario Central, in which players turned their backs during the customary pre-match ceremony.  

In addition to Verón’s suspension, all eleven Estudiantes players involved in the demonstration have been handed two-match bans. The protest was staged after Rosario Central were awarded the newly introduced “League Champion” title for finishing top of the regular season standings with 66 points.  

Verón, who enjoyed a distinguished career in Europe with clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea, Sampdoria, and Lazio, has long-standing ties to Estudiantes, where he began and ended his playing career before becoming club president.  

His six-month ban prevents him from carrying out official duties, potentially disrupting Estudiantes’ administration and representation. Meanwhile, the player suspensions will affect squad availability in upcoming fixtures.  

No formal appeals have yet been announced, and further statements from Estudiantes and the AFA are expected to clarify how the club will manage Verón’s absence.