Wednesday 12 April 2017 12:59, UK
Barcelona star Neymar will miss El Clasico on April 23 after receiving a three-match ban following his red card against Malaga.
The news is a major blow to the Catalan side, who currently lie three points behind Real Madrid in the race for the La Liga title, having played a game more than their rivals.
The Brazilian forward was dismissed when he was shown two yellow cards against the Andalusians on Saturday, earning an automatic one-match suspension.
However, his punishment was increased because he sarcastically applauded the fourth official as he walked down the tunnel.
Barcelona are expected to appeal the decision but, as it stands, Neymar will be absent for home games against Real Sociedad and Osasuna, as well as the potentially pivotal match at the Bernabeu later this month.
Neymar was booked in the first half during the 2-0 defeat at La Rosaleda for delaying a Malaga free-kick by tying his shoelaces in front of the ball, and he then charged into Roberto Rosales 25 minutes from time to earn his second yellow card.
Barcelona boss Luis Enrique said after the match: "I think the interpretation of the yellow cards is special.
"We have to be very careful in some games because there were some ugly challenges from behind that went unpunished and tying boots was."
