Mamadou Coulibaly risks LFP punishment after throat-slitting gesture against Le Mans

AS Monaco midfielder Mamadou Coulibaly could face disciplinary action after celebrating his goal against Le Mans with a controversial throat-slitting gesture during Sunday’s 1-1 draw.

The 22-year-old scored Monaco’s opening goal, his first in Ligue 1 this season, but his celebration could attract the attention of the Professional Football League (LFP) disciplinary committee.

Coulibaly’s gesture comes just weeks after his Monaco teammate Paris Brunner received a four-match suspension, with two matches mandatory, for making a similar gesture.

Coulibaly apologises after controversial gesture

The midfielder’s celebration has raised concerns because of the previous disciplinary action taken against Brunner.

However, Coulibaly’s gesture was directed towards Monaco’s travelling supporters rather than the Le Mans fans.

Speaking at half-time, the 22-year-old explained that the celebration was intended as “a tribute to a friend who had told me to do it”.

He later apologised for his actions after the match.

Despite the apology, Coulibaly could still face a suspension similar to the one handed to Brunner by the LFP disciplinary committee.

Monaco face another disciplinary concern

Brunner’s suspension had previously prompted a response from Monaco coach Filipe Luis, who defended the player while stressing that the club was treating the incident seriously.

The coach also expressed his hope that such an incident would not happen again.

Following Coulibaly’s latest gesture, Filipe Luis is expected to address the midfielder, particularly given the disciplinary issues that have already affected the club in recent weeks.