Following an appeal, the Football Association rescinded Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta red card against Aston Villa on Wednesday (AEST).
What Happened:
After appearing to strike Jack Grealish in the chest, the defender was sent off for abusive actions in the final minute of Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat at Villa Park on Sunday. The FA has overturned Azpilicueta’s three-match domestic ban, which he was expected to complete at the start of next season.
“An independent disciplinary commission has lifted Cesar Azpilicueta’s three-match suspension after a successful accusation of unfair dismissal,” the FA said in a statement.
Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League. They secured a spot in the Champions League for next season despite their final-game defeat to Villa.
The Blues have a chance to win UEFA’s main club competition this season, with a crucial match against domestic rivals Manchester City scheduled for Saturday in Porto.
Azpilicueta has played 42 times for Chelsea in all competitions this season. He is a strong contender to start in the Champions League final.
The 31-year-old was selected to Spain’s Euro 2020 squad this week.
From a personal standpoint, Azpilicueta will be able to play in Saturday’s Champions League final. The match will be against Manchester City without the threat of a ban. It will also be welcome news as Chelsea’s next Premier League season begins.
Azpilicueta has started 24 of Chelsea’s 26 league games. He has played a key role in the club’s Champions League qualification for next season. Thomas Tuchel has given the Spain international a central position in his back three on the right flank.
“An independent Regulatory Commission has lifted Cesar Azpilicueta’s three-match suspension after a successful accusation of unfair dismissal,” the FA said in a law and discipline clarification.
“The Chelsea FC defender was suspended from Sunday’s Premier League match against Aston Villa FC due to abusive conduct.”
