Former Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp on Monday slammed FIFA’s decision to overturn US striker Folarin Balogun’s suspension, which reportedly took place after an intervention from US President Donald Trump.
Balogun was set to miss Monday’s last-16 knockout clash with Belgium having picked up a red card in his previous match, but FIFA on Sunday suspended the ban for a year, making the forward eligible to play.
Sources told AFP Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino, asking him to review Balogun’s punishment.
Former Liverpool manager Klopp, who is set to become the next Germany manager after Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation on Friday, hit out at the decision.
“It’s a red card, even if it’s a shame because Balogun can’t play, but it’s there in the rules,” Klopp said.
