Gianni Balzarini discussed the potential number of match days for Kenan Yildiz`s suspension on Instagram. Balzarini emphasized that the referee`s report will be crucial. Even though “check for violent conduct” appeared on the scoreboard, this check is precisely for verifying if such conduct actually occurred. He explained there are two relevant articles: article 38 (violent conduct) and article 39 (serious unsportsmanlike conduct).
Violent conduct implies the intention to hit an opponent, while serious unsportsmanlike conduct involves excessive competitive zeal. Yildiz`s situation falls on the borderline between these two definitions. Yildiz was trying to free himself during a tackle, and his arm clearly went up and made contact. He himself stated that it was not his intention, but Balzarini noted that his declaration might not be enough to establish the objective truth.
This distinction is important because in the first case, violent conduct results in a three-match ban, while in the second case, serious unsportsmanlike conduct results in two. If classified as violent conduct (three matches), Juve could potentially file an appeal to argue that it was instead serious unsportsmanlike conduct (two matches). So, the suspension will ultimately be either three or two matches. “We`ll see,” he concluded.