Union Berlin manager FINED €25,000 and suspended for three matches for ‘pushing’ Bayern star Leroy Sane

The German Football Association (DFB) fined Nenad Bjelica €25,000 (£21,330) for pushing Sane in the face, citing unsportsmanlike conduct. This led to his absence from Union Berlin‘s matches against Darmstadt, RB Leipzig, and Mainz. Speaking to ESPN, Bjelica explained that he intended to pass the ball to Sane but was pushed by the German forward, prompting his reaction. When asked about apologizing to Sane, Bjelica dismissed it, attributing his on-field reaction to football emotions.

He was appointed in November last year, following the dismissal of Swiss manager Urs Fischer by Union due to a lackluster beginning to the 2023-24 season. Despite the Croatian’s arrival, Union Berlin are still struggling in the 15th position on the table.

Nenad Bjelica’s arrival at Union Berlin has not changed the club’s fortunes

Croatian manager Nenad Bjelica was appointed by Union Berlin two months ago, owing to a disappointing start to the season under former boss, Urs Fischer. Despite his arrival, Union have not performed at their best level, securing only two victories in their last six matches.

Former manager Urs Fischer guided the club to a seventh-place finish in 2021-22 and a historic fourth-place finish in 2022-23, securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League in 2023. However, the club had a disappointing start to the 2023-24 season, finding themselves in the relegation zone by October.

Since Bjelica’s appointment, the club has improved, winning two, drawing two, and losing three matches since November. With only four wins out of 17 matches and 14 points accumulated, the club has struggled, scoring 17 goals and conceding 32 this season. The departure of key forward Sheraldo Becker to Real Sociedad for €3 million this month poses additional challenges.