Gareth Bale could be set for 12 match ban after provocative gesture against Atletico Madrid

Gareth Bale could be suspended for 12 games.

Real Madrid have been finding their feet lately by producing some good displays. The Los Blancos have drawn the game against Barcelona and have won the derby against Atletico Madrid at Wanda Metropolitano.

The Madrid derby contained full drama and produced yet another classic. It was Casemiro who opened the score in the first half. But, nine minutes later, Atletico Madrid’s star Antonio Griezmann equalized. Just when both the sides were settling for an even parity heading into the dressing room for half time speech, the Los Blancos went ahead through Sergio Ramos’ penalty.

Gareth Bale scored his 100th Real Madrid goal, but he could have suspended following an offensive celebration. The Welsh International celebrated by raising one arm after hitting it with his other arm and it could lead to a suspension of up to 12 games after La Liga approached the Spanish FA and asked for him to be banned.

In a statement La Liga said, “In the celebration of Bale’s goal, he waves his right arm to the proximity of his head, in a predictable sign of encouraging provocation to the public, subsequently making a gesture of possible obscene and contemptuous meaning, raising the bent arm and hitting the middle of it with the other hand,”

“The possible sanctions for these provocations vary. If it occurs, the offender will be sanctioned with suspension of four to twelve games, if the animosity of the public, the suspension will be from one to three parties (games) or for a period of up to one month.”

It is not likely to see him get the ban for 12 games, but it is plausible to see him sit out for the next few games. Bale has made 15 appearances in the La Liga this term and has scored six goals. The Los Blancos are already only six points adrift of the league toppers Barcelona.

There is no doubt about the quality of Gareth Bale and Santiago Solari will be keen to keep hold of him rather than losing him via suspension as they prepare to fight for every available trophy this campaign.

Following a nervy 2-1 victory over Ajax in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, Real Madrid will play Girona at Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday followed by the La Liga clash against Levante away from home seven days later.