MARC OUT
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GALATASARAY ace Marcao has been slapped with an eight-game ban after his shocking attack on his own team-mate during a league match.
The centre-back confronted Kerem Akturkoglu during their side's 2-0 victory at Giresunspor on Monday and went on to headbutt and aim two punches in the winger's direction.
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Following a brief VAR review, the Brazilian was immediately sent off and the Turkish Football Federation decided to hand him a lengthy suspension along with a fine of around £1,800 for the shameful incident.
Galatasaray fans were outraged by the 25-year-old's actions and demanded his dismissal from the club.
However, manager Fatih Terim urged for cooler heads to prevail as he stated that Marcao would apologise to Akturkoglu and the rest of the team.
The player did indeed issue a public apology to his team-mate, his parents, Terim, president Burak Elmas and the fans.
Marcao said: "I am a human just like you, but could not show exemplary behavior.
"First, I apologise to Kerem's mother and father… then I also apologise to my brother, Kerem, for my behavior.
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"I can understand that you may not want me anymore. I respect all the decisions [the club makes] about me."
Akturkoglu, on the other hand, has yet to issue a public response to Marcao following the shocking scrap.
Instead, the Turkey international shared a picture of the Galatasaray badge and a photo of himself celebrating with his team-mates on his official Instagram page.
Marcao joined the Turkish giants two years ago following a move from Chaves.
The former Rio Ave ace has since amassed a total of 107 appearances for Galatasaray.
The incident brought back memories of the famous Premier League scrap between Newcastle stars Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer in April 2005.
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