Nigerian striker Gift Orban will not be part of the Olympique Lyonnais squad for Friday’s Ligue 1 match against Lille, the club has announced.
It came after Lyon’s 2-2 draw with Auxerre, in which Orban made a comment on Instagram that sparked controversy.
Orban, who was excluded from the list of players that faced Toulouse in September, immediately apologised for the post, but club management has decided to meete out disciplinary action.
Backlash For Social Media Mishap
Auxerre defender Sinaly Diomandé was caught up in the incident after he posted on Instagram celebrating his goal over Lyon.
But when Orban responded with “top” and flame emojis, he was in response to supporting his friend.
According to RMC Sports, his comment was frowned upon by Lyon fans and club officials, given Lyon’s difficult season.
But Orban later insisted that he hadn’t meant what he said, telling OL fans: ‘I made this comment by mistake; I didn’t even see that it was the photo of our match.’
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Lyon Takes Disciplinary Action
But Lyon’s management have been firm, removing Orban from the squad for the next game against Lille, and are planning on meeting to address the incident further.
It could also be seen as a decision that will affect Orban’s ethics bonus, the club’s desire to stay with a good image, and the accountability of its players.
In Ligue 1 this season, Orban has scored two goals for Lyon after joining the club from Gent last winter.
