Bayern Munich head coach Thomas Tuchel says Sadio Mane retains his “full support” after an altercation with a team-mate that led to the Senegal international being suspended.
Mane, 31, was dropped from the squad for Saturday’s game against Hoffenheim for “misconduct” after leaving Leroy Sane with a bloodied lip following a spat after the 3-0 Champions League defeat to Manchester City in midweek.
Tuchel said he had not seen the incident personally, but told reporters that Mane had apologised “to everyone involved”.
Speaking at his press conference yesterday, Tuchel said of the former Liverpool player: “I am his first lawyer and his first defender. I’ve known him for so long and I know his entourage.
“He has my full support. He had that before and he still has it after this mistake that he has made. Everyone has the right to make a mistake.”
The Athletic reported earlier this week that tensions had flared after an attacking move at the Etihad broke down, with a heated on-field discussion boiling over after the full-time whistle.
Mane has been under scrutiny in recent months following his return from injury and Bayern’s indifferent form at times. He has scored 11 goals in 32 appearances during his first season at Bayern.
Despite the incident, Tuchel insisted the atmosphere at the club remained “calm” and suggested the flare-up may even have a “cleansing” function within the squad.