Wanderers captain facing lengthy ban as finals approach

With just four games remaining in the 2022-23 A League season, the Western Sydney Wanderers could be without captain Marcelo until the finals after it was revealed he would face multiple charges at the Match Review Panel.

Marcelo was sent off in WSW's last game against Adelaide United after putting young Reds star Nestory Irankunda in a headlock after the teen took exception to a straightforward professional foul from Wanderers midfielder Calem Nieuwenhof. The Wanderers captain then got involved in a further scuffle with Adelaide defender Lachlan Barr, wrapping an arm around his head. He was shown a straight red card in the aftermath.

Though the were still in the contest at the time of the dismissal, Adelaide went on to claim an important three points with the teams both flying high on the ladder.

The MRP has now charged Marcelo with three separate charges of 'assault on a player', which typically carries a minimum ban of two games.

He will now front the FA's Disciplinary and Ethics Committee - a step that's usually only required when dealing with matters that can result in a ban of four weeks or more. Even if he escapes heavy sanction, which seems unlikely, it effectively rules him out of the rest of the regular season.

It's a huge blow for the Wanderers, who've been playing with confidence behind a defence-first style of play that has handed them the best defensive record in the domestic competition. The Wanderers have conceded 21 goals in 22 games this year, six fewer than ladder leaders Melbourne City.

The Wanderers' next clash is the third Derby of the year against Macarthur Bulls. Western Sydney have won both previous clashes 4-0.