Bayern Munich to Appeal Luis Diaz Champions League Ban

Bayern Munich are set to appeal Luis Diaz’s three-match Champions League suspension, describing the ban as “very harsh” following his controversial red card against Paris Saint-Germain, which resulted in Achraf Hakimi’s injury.

Bayern Munich Challenging Luis Diaz’s Champions League Ban

Bayern Munich have formally announced their intention to contest the three-game Champions League suspension handed to Luis Diaz, following his red card in their 2-1 victory over PSG earlier this month. The decision came after Diaz, the Colombian forward and former Liverpool star, was dismissed for a late first-half challenge that left PSG’s Achraf Hakimi sidelined with a sprained ankle.

UEFA classified the incident as “serious rough play,” leading to a sanction that Bayern consider disproportionate. Diaz’s absence is a significant setback for the German champions as they prepare for a crucial European fixture against Arsenal.

Reaction from Bayern Munich Leadership

Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen addressed the matter: “We have requested the written justification from UEFA in order to lodge a formal appeal. The length of the ban surprised us; we initially expected just a one-match suspension based on prior communications. Although it was a serious foul, it was not violent conduct, nor was it directed at the referee or followed by any further misconduct. In the past, only such cases warranted a three-match ban.”

Sporting Director Max Eberl echoed these sentiments, stating, “I believe three matches is very harsh. If we can reduce it to two, that would be fantastic.”

Toni Kroos Defends Diaz, Questions Referee’s Decision

Former Bayern and Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos also weighed in, voicing support for Diaz on his podcast. Kroos argued, “For me, it’s clear: it wasn’t a red card. The referee allowed Hakimi’s injury to overly influence his decision. The play itself, in real time, didn’t show malicious intent. Had Hakimi not been injured, no one would have reviewed the incident.”

Kroos further criticized the role of VAR in slow-motion replays, suggesting that consequences, rather than intent, should not dictate the severity of the punishment. “In situations like these, the referee should judge the action itself, not just the consequences,” he concluded.

Bayern’s Champions League Hopes Hang in the Balance

The timing of Diaz’s ban could hardly be worse for Bayern Munich, who sit joint-top in their Champions League group and are set for a high-stakes showdown against Arsenal. With both teams riding a four-match European winning streak, Diaz’s absence could shape the outcome of the group.

Bayern’s recent Bundesliga form, including a convincing 6-2 win over Freiburg featuring a brace from Michael Olise and goals from Harry Kane and Nicolas Jackson, demonstrates their attacking firepower. However, the loss of Diaz for multiple matches adds extra pressure ahead of their meeting with Premier League leaders Arsenal.

What’s Next for Bayern and Diaz?

Bayern Munich’s legal team is now awaiting UEFA’s written explanation before proceeding with an official appeal. While club officials remain realistic about their chances of overturning or reducing the ban, they are determined to support Diaz and seek what they consider a fair resolution.

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Opinion: Fairness in Disciplinary Decisions Is Essential

Incidents like the Luis Diaz red card highlight the ongoing debate about fairness in football disciplinary actions. While player safety must always be a priority, sanctions should reflect intent and precedent—not just the outcome of a challenge. Bayern’s decision to appeal is justified, and UEFA’s response will set an important benchmark for future cases.