Robert Lewandowski will miss Barcelona’s trip to Atletico Madrid on Sunday after his three-game suspension was upheld by Spain’s Sports Administrative Court.
The Poland striker was issued the extended ban for a gesture made towards referee Gil Manzano after being shown two yellow cards in November’s 2-1 win at Osasuna.
Barcelona had earlier appealed the decision of Spanish Football Federation’s decision at a Madrid court and Lewandowski was allowed to play in last week’s 1-1 draw with Espanyol, much to the Periquitos’ anger.
While coach Xavi said on Tuesday he was hopeful the 34-year-old would be on card in Sunday’s game, it has now been confirmed on Wednesday that Barca were unsuccessful with their latest appeal- meaning Lewandowski will miss the match at Estadio Metropolitano.
The ban does not cover Copa del Rey or Supercopa de Espana ties, so Lewandowski will also sit out the LaLiga meetings with Getafe and Girona before the end of January.
Lewy has scored 18 goals in 20 games this season.