Espérance de Tunis playmaker Youcef Belaili has been handed a two-match suspension and a fine of 5,000 Tunisian dinars (around $1,700) by the Tunisian National Professional Football League (LNFP), following disciplinary proceedings related to his conduct in a league fixture against JS El Omrane last month.
The decision, confirmed on Friday, April 11, 2025, follows a hearing held by the LNFP Ethics and Disciplinary Committee on April 4.
The 33-year-old Algerian international appeared alongside legal counsel to contest allegations of what the committee described as an “inappropriate attitude” during the match.
Despite Belaili’s firm denial of any wrongdoing, the disciplinary body chose to uphold the sanction.
The outcome has sparked backlash from Espérance, who publicly criticized the league’s disciplinary process.
In a strongly worded statement, the club expressed dismay at being excluded from the deliberations, stating that the refusal to allow a club representative at the hearing raised concerns about transparency and fairness.
Belaili’s suspension comes at a critical juncture in Espérance’s campaign.
The attacking midfielder will miss two key league fixtures, starting with the clash against EGS Gafsa on April 13, followed by the highly anticipated derby encounter with Club Africain on April 20.
His absence will also extend to the domestic cup competition due to regulations that bar foreign players from participating outside of the national league.
This adds another layer of complexity to Espérance’s squad management as they enter the final stretch of the season.
Currently level on points with Union Monastirienne at the top of the league, Espérance face mounting pressure in their title pursuit.
With only five matches remaining, the loss of Belaili—one of their most experienced and influential figures—could prove significant.
The Algerian midfielder, known for his creativity and leadership on the pitch, has been a central figure in Espérance’s title challenge this season.
His absence will demand a swift tactical reshuffle from the coaching staff as they navigate a decisive run of fixtures.
As the club weighs its next steps, including a possible appeal, the controversy surrounding Belaili’s suspension continues to cast a shadow over the league’s closing weeks.
