Rival watch: Real Madrid handed boost as key Celta Vigo forward set to miss pivotal clash | OneFootball

In a development that could be a boost for Real Madrid ahead of their away fixture against Celta Vigo after the international break, it has been confirmed that Celta’s key forward, Iago Aspas, will miss the match.

According to AS, the Celta captain has been handed a one-match suspension by the Competition Committee.

Aspas received this ban due to the two yellow cards he picked up within just two minutes during Celta’s recent clash against Las Palmas.

What was the incident?

The first yellow card came after Aspas approached the referee to protest the sending-off of his teammate Ilaix Moriba.

As captain, he expressed his disagreement by merely opening his arms when he was around twenty metres away from the referee, without showing any disrespect.

Iago Aspas was sent off against Las Palmas. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)

However, despite the mild nature of his protest, the referee deemed his actions worthy of a second yellow card, resulting in Aspas’ expulsion from the game.

Celta Vigo firmly believe that the decision to send off their captain was highly unjust. The club made an effort to defend him by filing an initial complaint, feeling morally obliged to support their player.

However, they are well aware that legally, there is little chance of overturning the suspension.

Good news for Real Madrid

With the ban now confirmed, Celta manager Claudio Giraldez knows for certain that he will be without his most important player for the crucial tie against Real Madrid.

Aspas is not only the team’s captain but also their main attacking threat and leader on the pitch. His absence is expected to have a significant impact on how Celta prepares for the match, especially when facing a strong opponent like Real Madrid.

This suspension could work in Real Madrid’s favour as they look to secure three points in what would otherwise have been a tougher challenge with Aspas leading the line for Celta.