Nagelsmann fined for explosion, avoids suspension

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann was fined 50,000 euros ($53,200) on Wednesday but was spared a suspension for his anger at referees after the defeat of the leaders of the Bundesliga in 3 games against 2 on the ground of Borussia Mönchengladbach.

The German football association imposed the fine for what it called “unsportsmanlike comments” by Nagelsmann towards referee Tobias Welz and his assistants in his dressing room after Saturday’s game. It was decided not to suspend the strategist, noting that he had apologized the same evening and that he had no record of an appearance before his disciplinary court.

Nagelsmann was angry after Bayern defender Dayot Upamecano was sent off in the eighth minute for a foul on Alassane Plea as the Dortmund player charged towards the opposite goal. The contact was minimal, but Welz figured it was enough to throw Plea off balance.

Nagelsmann understood it differently at the time and angrily confronted the referees after the game.

“Are you fucking me or what? Nagelsmann would have vociferated, according to the press. He also knocked on the door of the referees’ locker room.

Bayern lead the Bundesliga due to a better goal difference than Borussia Dortmund and Union Berlin.

Nagelsmann is feeling the pressure as the Bavarian side saw their four-point lead dissipate after the winter break.

Bayern, German champions for 10 seasons, will host Union on Sunday.