Hannibal Mejbri Faces FA Charge Over Spitting Incident

Hannibal Mejbri Under Investigation Following Leeds Clash

Hannibal Mejbri, Burnley midfielder and ex-Manchester United star, has been charged by the FA following an alleged spitting incident at Leeds United fans during a heated Premier League encounter at Turf Moor. The primary focus keyword “Hannibal Mejbri” is at the heart of this controversy, which has reignited long-standing tensions with Leeds supporters.

Details of the Alleged Spitting Incident

The incident reportedly occurred around the 67th minute, as Hannibal Mejbri walked behind the goal to deliver a tactical note to Burnley goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. Witnesses claim that Mejbri reacted to hostile chants from Leeds fans, leading to the alleged spitting. This behaviour resulted in an official complaint to Lancashire Police and a subsequent FA review, culminating in a formal charge against the Tunisia international.

An FA spokesperson clarified: “Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri has been charged with misconduct after their Premier League fixture against Leeds United on Saturday, 18 October. It is alleged that he breached the Laws of the Game through improper, abusive, or indecent behaviour by spitting at or towards Leeds supporters. Hannibal Mejbri has until Friday, November 28 to respond to the charge.”

Ongoing Rivalry Between Hannibal Mejbri and Leeds Fans

This is not the first time Hannibal Mejbri has clashed with Leeds supporters. His history with the club stretches back to his five-year stint at Manchester United, where he was subjected to taunts referencing his distinctive hairstyle. In 2020, chants likening Mejbri’s hair to Sideshow Bob from The Simpsons echoed during an FA Youth Cup tie, and similar incidents have occurred since his move to Burnley.

Last month’s events reflect an escalation in this ongoing feud. After joining Burnley permanently in 2024, Mejbri appeared to taunt Leeds fans in a Championship fixture, further fueling animosity. For more news on player rivalries and Premier League developments, visit for more news.

Possible Consequences for Hannibal Mejbri

If found guilty, Hannibal Mejbri faces a standard six-match suspension for spitting offenses, although reports suggest the case could be treated as a “non-standard” incident due to its complexity. Previous cases, such as Jonny Evans’ six-game ban in 2015 and Papiss Cisse’s seven-game suspension, set a precedent, but Mejbri could negotiate a lesser penalty by accepting the charge and apologizing. Should he contest, the matter would go before an independent regulatory commission.

What Lies Ahead for Hannibal Mejbri and Burnley?

Mejbri has 17 days to respond to the FA, with Burnley currently on a break before facing Chelsea at Turf Moor on November 22. During this period, Mejbri will join Tunisia’s national team for international friendlies against Mauritania, Jordan, and Brazil. Tunisia’s third consecutive World Cup qualification offers a positive note amid club-level controversy.

For Burnley, the impact of a potential ban may be limited. Mejbri’s involvement this season has been minimal, with only one assist following the Leeds match and no Premier League starts since late September. Across 10 league appearances, his minutes have been restricted, raising questions about his influence on the squad.

Opinion: A Pivotal Moment for Hannibal Mejbri

The FA charge marks a defining point in Hannibal Mejbri’s career. While his passion and competitive edge are clear, maintaining professionalism is crucial, especially under provocation. How he handles this situation—whether through acceptance, apology, or contesting the charge—will shape public perception and his future in English football. The outcome could signal not only the severity of disciplinary processes but also the importance of player conduct in high-pressure environments.