A detailed view of Estudiantes's jersey during the Torneo Betano 2025 match between Estudiantes and Gimnasia at Jorge Luis Hirschi Stadium in La Plata, Argentina, on October 19, 2025. (Photo by Julian Martinez/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Former Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron has received a six-month suspension from all football-related activities due to his involvement in a controversial incident while serving as president of Argentine club Estudiantes. The suspension, issued by the Argentine Football Association (AFA), follows Veron’s direction to his players to turn their backs on opponents Rosario Central during a guard of honour, intended to recognize Rosario’s league championship title.
Veron, who began his professional career at Estudiantes in the 1990s before enjoying stints in Europe with clubs like Sampdoria and Lazio, returned to the club as president after retiring from professional football. This incident occurred on the eve of a play-off match for the Primera Division at the Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi, where Estudiantes was set to face Rosario Central, the team that topped the league standings.
The controversy erupted after Rosario Central was awarded the title, despite the league’s structure involving end-of-season knockout play-offs to determine the ultimate champion. In a display of protest, Estudiantes players lined up to welcome Rosario onto the pitch but deliberately turned their backs as a sign of disrespect instead of applauding.
As a result of this coordinated act, the AFA has not only suspended Veron but also imposed a two-match suspension on the players who participated in this “reprehensible conduct.” The league authorities emphasized that such behaviour undermines the spirit of the game and the respect that should be afforded to opponents.
The decision to issue the suspensions was made public on November 23, 2025, following widespread criticism of the team’s actions. The AFA’s swift response aims to reinforce the importance of sportsmanship and decorum in Argentine football.
Veron’s time in England was marked by challenges, spending two years at Manchester United before moving to Chelsea in 2003, where his tenure was overshadowed by loan spells at Inter Milan and a return to Estudiantes in 2007. Despite his illustrious career, his recent actions have drawn significant scrutiny and have left a mark on his legacy within the sport.
The incident has sparked discussions about player conduct and the responsibilities of club officials in maintaining respect among clubs and their supporters. The AFA’s decision serves as a reminder of the standards expected within the sport, particularly in a country where football holds immense cultural significance.
