German forward’s throat‑cut celebration earns Ligue ban

While preparing for Saturday’s Germany U21 match against Latvia, 20‑year‑old Paris Brunner learned he had been handed a retrospective suspension by the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP). The forward’s obscene throat‑cut celebration during AS Monaco’s 1‑1 draw with Strasbourg earned him a two‑match ban, with an additional two matches suspended.

Controversial gesture sparks debate

Brunner scored the equaliser in the 71st minute and then mimed cutting his throat toward the Strasbourg supporters. Whistles followed, but officials took no action during the game. The gesture prompted immediate criticism and a review by the league authorities.

After the match, Brunner told L’Équipe that he could hear his family being insulted by the crowd. “There were a lot of emotions after the goal, especially after a goal like that. I didn’t want to be disrespectful,” he said.

He added the celebration happened “in the heat of the moment” and that he did not regret it, but it was misunderstood. “What I wanted to say was: What a goal, that was it,” he explained.

The LFP imposed a two‑match suspension, with another two matches suspended, meaning Brunner will miss Monaco’s home game against Toulouse and the away fixture at Lorient after the international break.