Neymar banned three matches, will miss El Clasico

Neymar was given a three match ban following his sending off against Malaga and will now miss El Clasico.

Neymar was sent off during Barcelona’s 2-0 defeat at the hands of Malaga on Saturday. Neymar was booked twice, resulting in him seeing red and receiving a one match ban. However, as he was leaving the pitch, he mocked the fourth official by clapping at him sarcastically.

Tuesday, the Royal Spanish Football Federation announced Neymar would be banned for an additional two matches, which will result in him missing El Clasico. Currently, Barcelona are three points off league leaders Real Madrid, who have a game in hand.

Neymar should have known better than to act in such childish manner, as he not only hurt himself, but his team as well. The upcoming Clasico will have huge implications on who takes home the La Liga title this year. Unfortunately, Neymar will miss out.

This could have huge consequences as a Barcelona loss would surely eliminate them from title contention. The three headed monster of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar is vital to the team’s success. MSN, as they are called, is often referred to as the world’s most dangerous attack. Without the Brazilian winger, the attack will lack the pace and exquisite skill that it normally has on the left flank.

The path ahead for Barcelona is not easy as they play sixth place Real Sociedad this week prior to their clash with Real Madrid on Sunday, April 23. Add in a Champions League matchup with Juventus this week and the schedule just becomes more stressful for Barcelona.

Next: Barcelona vs. Juventus preview

Neymar has started 26 matches for Barcelona in La Liga this season, scoring nine goals and notching 10 assists. His absence will surely be felt and will result in Messi and Suarez carrying more of the goal-scoring load for the next three matches.