Article 14 of Uefa’s disciplinary regulations states there should be a ten-match ban for discriminatory behaviour for both racism and homophobia, but permits that sanction to be reduced depending on the circumstances. It is understood that it was seen as easier to impose a ban on Prestianni for an admitted offence than one he may have disputed.

The suspension applies to Uefa-sanctioned matches at either club or international level, but European football’s governing body has requested that Fifa extend the sanction to its competitions, which include this summer’s World Cup. Fifa has been contacted for comment. Prestianni made his one and only Argentina appearance to date in November against Angola, so it is not clear that he would be part of their squad in North America this summer.