AC Milan’s Bonucci issued 2-match ban for elbowing

MILAN (AP) — Leonardo Bonucci’s elbow to the head of a defender has resulted in a two-match ban and will prevent him from facing his former squad Juventus on Saturday.

The Italian league announced the decision on Monday, a day after Bonucci was sent off in the first half of AC Milan’s 0-0 draw at home with Genoa on Sunday.

Bonucci’s blow to Aleandro Rosi’s head as the pair jostled for position on a free kick left the Genoa player on the ground for several minutes before the blood was cleaned up and he continued playing.

The referee did not initially show Bonucci a red card. The decision came with the help of the video assistant referee (VAR) — marking the first time a red card was handed out by the VAR in Italy.

Bonucci will also miss a game against Chievo Verona on Wednesday.