Shocking moment in Spain: Player handed ban after grabbing Barcelona star by the neck and headbutting him

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the suspension follows Bernal's straight red card in Saturday's clash between Real Betis and Barcelona (2-5). The midfielder was sent off after a heated confrontation with Yamal, who had stepped in when tempers flared around teammate Fermin Lopez.

"In the 54th minute, player (6) FACUNDO BERNAL CRUZ was sent off for the following reason: during a stoppage in play, he grabbed an opponent by the neck and headbutted him twice in quick succession to the face. The opposing player did not require medical attention and was able to continue in the match," the referee noted in his official report.

Article 103 mandates a four-to-twelve match suspension for physical assault that does not result in injury. The fact that the ball was out of play was a decisive factor in assessing intent.