Idrissa Gueye was applauded by Everton teammates after delivering a heartfelt apology for his red card during Monday’s win over Manchester United, where he was sent off for striking teammate Michael Keane.
The midfielder became the first Premier League player in 17 years to be dismissed for hitting a teammate after slapping Keane following a heated exchange that began with Gueye’s misplaced pass inside Everton’s penalty area. Despite playing with 10 men for most of the match, Everton secured a remarkable 1–0 victory at Old Trafford.
Gueye was unable to speak to the squad at half-time but addressed the group after the match, personally apologising to Keane and the team for leaving them shorthanded. His words were met with warm applause in the dressing room.
Everton may still take internal disciplinary action, with manager David Moyes confirming the club has standard procedures for red-card offences. Gueye is expected to serve a three-match ban and could also miss further games if selected for Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations squad.
The 36-year-old also issued a public apology on social media, taking full responsibility for his actions and promising it would not happen again.
