Guinean Midfielder, Naby Keita has been suspended by his German club, Werder Bremen until the end of the 2023/2024 Bundesliga season.
The club has taken this stern action after an alleged incident where Keita refused to board the team bus upon learning he wouldn’t be starting in the clash against Bayer Leverkusen on Sunday, April 14th, 2024.
Keita joined Werder Bremen as a free agent from Liverpool last summer managing only five appearances this season due to injuries. Clemens Fritz, the sporting director of Werder Bremen, emphasized that such behavior would not be tolerated, especially during a crucial season phase. In a statement released by the club, it was confirmed that Keita had been suspended until the end of the season and slapped with a significant fine for his alleged unprofessionalism. Moreover, he is barred from training with the team or using the professional dressing room.
Fritz reiterated the seriousness of the situation, highlighting that Keita’s actions undermined the team’s unity and focus, which are vital in their remaining games. He emphasized every player’s need for full dedication, particularly at this crucial stage of the season. Keita, however, took to Instagram to defend himself, expressing his commitment to the club and the supporters. He denied any disciplinary issues throughout his career and asserted his dedication to training and giving his best for the team.
Werder Bremen are 12th in the German Bundesliga Table with 31 points from 29 matches. The 5-0 loss in their last match handed Bayer Leverkusen their first-ever Bundesliga title in History. Werder Bremen’s next match will be against VFB Stuttgart on the 21st of April 2024.