Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has been handed a four-match suspension following his dismissal in the Spanish Super Cup second leg against Athletic Bilbao. Pique protested angrily in the face of a linesman over an offside call during the course of the game and was red-carded by referee Carlos Velasco.

Velasco Carballo’s official report said that the Spain international used foul and abusive language when shouting at the assistant.

“In minute 55 the player [3] Pique Bernabeu, Gerard, was sent off for the following reason: shouting at an assistant referee, “I s— on your f—ing mother,” the report said.

Gerard Pique has apologised for his behaviour in the 1-1 draw, which meant the match finished 5-1 in Athleti’s favour, but denied personally insulting the assistant referee.

However, the Spanish FA (RFEF) said the “video supports” the referee’s report’s claim that Pique did swear at the official.

The centre-back’s suspension means he is set to miss the Liga matches against Athletic (away), Malaga (home), Atletico Madrid (away) and Levante (home).

Pique, who has also been fined €3,005 and his club €1,400, has 10 business days from Thursday to appeal the sanction.