Why Roma’s Malen saw red at Como after a disputed tackle

Donyell Malen, the Dutch forward and Serie A top scorer, was shown a straight red card in the 53rd minute of AS Roma’s away match at Como. The Dutch striker protested to the fourth official, insisting a foul should have been awarded before his challenge.

The challenge and red card

During the incident Malen battled Como 1907 defender Jacobo Ramon for possession, with both players pulling each other’s shirts. When the ball rolled away, Malen attempted to win it back but executed a clumsy tackle, leg straight, studs up, and above‑ankle contact.

Referee Michael Fabbri halted play and issued a straight red card within seconds, without consulting VAR. A few minutes later Fabbri suffered an injury, prompting fourth official Simone Sozza to take over officiating duties for the remainder of the game.

Coach and expert reactions

referee analyst Luca Marelli observed live that the decision was correct, noting Malen’s slight touch on the ball but reckless foot placement, locked knee and speed made the red justified.

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Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini joined the protest from the touchline, supported by the club’s reserves on the bench, arguing the decision was harsh.

Pitch‑side reporter Davide Bernardi relayed Malen’s words to the fourth official as he left the field: “It’s always foul before.” The striker maintained his challenge should have resulted in a foul rather than a dismissal.

With Malen sent off, Roma were reduced to ten men. The dismissal comes as the Dutch forward leads the Serie A scoring charts, a blow to the club’s attacking options in the OCTOBER fixture at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium in ITALY.