MLS coach Federico Higuain sacked after making ‘sexist remark’ to female referee

He was also handed a two game ban.

According to a report from BBC Sport, Higuain — who was managing an MLS Next Pro league match — is said to have grabbed hold of, and refused to let go, the arm of a female referee, while telling her: "Don't forget this is a man's game".

The coach was sent off, immediately following the incident, and was also handed a two match suspension from the league.

Also in the aftermath of Higuain's comments, his club Columbus Crew opted to part company with the coach.

In a statement from Crew general manager Issa Tall, they confirmed as much, saying: "We determined it's in the best interest of our club, players and support staff to dismiss Federico Higuain from his responsibilities.

"After conversations this week and further assessing the past month, our club's standards of what's expected from a leader for one of our teams have not been met."

There have been questions from the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) over whether a two game ban was a sufficient punishment for Higuain's actions, despite the fact that the coach has also been sacked.

In a statement the body questioned MLS' decision, saying: "A male head coach committed two deliberate acts of physical abuse and sexism against a female official - squeezing her hand and refusing to let go after being told to stop three times.

"This physical intimidation was compounded by a demeaning, sexist remark to the official: 'Don't forget, this is a man's game.'

"Women make every level of this game better. They should not have to endure intimidation or degrading comments to prove it.

"Our female officials have proven their excellence on the world stage. They deserve the same respect, dignity, and safe working environment as every other official."