Galatasaray star sent off for punching own teammate in jaw-dropping scenes
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Galatasaray defender Marcao was sent off for headbutting and punching team-mate Kerem Akturkoglu during their first game of their 2021/22 Super Lig season on Monday evening.
Appearing to be shushed by Akturkoglu after their side took a 2-0 lead, Marcao saw red and walked towards his colleague before head-butting him in bizarre circumstances at Giresunspor's Cotanak Stadium.
In scenes reminiscent of Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer at Newcastle back in 2005, the 25-year-old Brazilian then threw a left hook which landed.
With Turkey international winger Akturkoglu choosing not to throw any punches back, Marcao was given his marching orders after the referee consulted VAR.
With first-half strikes from Mbaye Diagne and Alexandru Cicaldau handing the away side all three points, Marcao's future at the club is now uncertain.
Managed by Fatih Terim, Galatasaray finished second in the table last season, having won it most recently back in 2018/19 – the season in which Marcao joined from GD Chaves.
Having made 102 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring once, many fans have been left shocked and disappointed by his aggressive actions.
The club simply said on Twitter after the clash: "Marcao became a player in our team who received a red card."
Terim said after the incident: "I don't understand the reason that pushed Marcao to do this.
"What did he do that made him so angry…
"Unfortunately, these things happen in football. They will continue to happen."
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- Galatasaray FC
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