Italian football has handed down a harsh sanction in the case of Romanian youth international Troy Tomșa (18 years old). The midfielder who plays for Sassuolo U20 has been suspended for an extended period after displaying violent behavior towards a match referee.
The incident occurred in the 62nd minute of the match between Napoli U20 and Sassuolo U20, which was won by Napoli 5-2.
Tensions arose after a duel in which referee Mattia Maresca awarded a free kick against the visiting team.
The decision displeased Troy Tomșa, who protested vehemently and was immediately sent off. The reaction of the Romanian footballer quickly escalated: he approached the referee, grabbed him by the throat, and directed serious threats and insults towards him.
According to information published by Gazzetta dello Sport, the intervention of his teammates was crucial in preventing the incident from escalating further on the field. Even after leaving the pitch, tensions did not subside, and on the way to the locker room, Tomșa reportedly pushed a member of the Sassuolo technical staff.
The disciplinary committee made a drastic decision and suspended the player until December 31, 2026.
Representatives of the disciplinary body explained that the severe sanction was imposed due to the player's extremely aggressive behavior and physical contact with the referee.