Portugal forward Rafael Leao – who has been of interest to Manchester United – was sent off in a pre-World Cup friendly for striking an opponent in the face.
The 48 teams that will compete in the summer’s tournament are playing friendly matches in preparation, and Portugal, who are among the favourites to go all the way in North America, took on Chile on Saturday night.
Roberto Martinez’s side, led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo, secured victory, winning 2-1 thanks to goals from Bruno Fernandes and Goncalo Guedes.
But what grabbed attention was an incident at the end of the first-half, that saw Leao and Chile star Ivan Roman both given their marching orders.
Footage showed the duo clashing on the side of the pitch following an incident between Portugal’s Joao Cancelo and Chile’s Felipe Faundez, with the latter appearing to kick out at his opponent.
That led to a scuffle, with Roman centre stage before Leao went steaming in.
Rafael Leao (second left) was sent off in a friendly after striking an opponent on the eve of the World Cup
The forward is keen on a move to the Premier League after revealing he is looking to leave AC Milan this summer
After Roman appeared to push his head toward Cancelo, Leao pushed him twice in the chest before appearing to do so again in the throat.
After Roman pushed back, Leao then appeared to throw a strike of sorts, which seemingly connected with his rival’s jaw.
Roman carried on confronting Leao, and then, after receiving what seemed to be another push, hit the deck.
Both players were sent off, and it remains to be seen whether Leao could face retrospective action that could impact his World Cup participation.
His fist was open, though – which could benefit him in terms of any future charge.
Leao, who United have monitored for some time now, has revealed he is keen to leave current club AC Milan, with the Premier League his preferred destination.
His contract runs until 2028, and he is expected to play a key role for Portugal this summer alongside the likes of Champions League-winning duo Joao Neves and Vitinha.
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