Palmeiras head coach Abel Ferreira has been penalized with a $15,000 fine from CONMEBOL for directing an obscene gesture at one of his own players during a Copa Libertadores match.
The incident occurred after Argentine striker Flaco López netted the opening goal in Palmeiras’ 2-0 victory over Sporting Cristal on May 6.
CONMEBOL concluded that Ferreira violated the disciplinary code and cautioned him that any future infractions could result in more severe repercussions.
Ferreira later explained that his gesture was meant to be lighthearted and part of an internal joke aimed at motivating López, whom the coach feels often opts to pass rather than shoot.
“He’s the player I am toughest on,” Ferreira remarked regarding López. “My primary responsibility as a coach is to maximize the potential of my players. When he [López] gave me a thumbs-up, I responded with a middle finger because I have high expectations for him. I expect him to score and not retreat into midfield to assist. We have plenty of other players to fulfill that role.”
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“I treat him like he’s my own son; this has been the case since he arrived. I expect a lot from him because I recognize his potential.”
López, 25, who represents Argentina, transferred to Palmeiras from Lanús in 2022, scoring 25 goals and providing six assists in 64 appearances last season.
“He’s not fully there yet, but he possesses all the qualities to become a world-class striker,” Ferreira stated.