Sao Paulo’s volatile coach Emerson Leao has been handed a 60-day touchline ban for criticising a referee.
Brazil’s 1974 and 1978 World Cup goalkeeper was suspended following his behaviour during and after the 2-2 draw with Uniao Barbarense in the Paulista championship 10 days ago.
“I’m perplexed at the punishment I was given,” he said in comments broadcast on Brazilian television following the disciplinary hearing late on Monday.
Leao, Brazil coach for eight months in 2000-2001, launched an angry attack on referee Salvio Spinola after his team threw away a two-goal lead in the last 15 minutes.
“The referee changed the result of the game,” said Leao, who habitually spends matches ranting at match officials from the dugout, at the time.
“We haven’t been given a penalty in more than 30 matches. That can’t be right. When referees make mistakes, they should be punished for them.”
Sao Paulo, who lead the competition with 19 points from seven games, have said they will appeal.
