Tunisia’s 1-1 draw with Mauritania on 12 November 2025 raised several questions among fans, especially regarding the absence of Hannibal Mejbri from the matchday squad. The Burnley midfielder has been in the headlines recently due to a misconduct charge following a Premier League game against Leeds United back in October 2025.
This article on 96 APK explains the reason behind his omission, provides a brief match report, and looks at whether he will participate in the remaining international fixtures.
Current Accusation Following the Leeds United Match
Hannibal Mejbri is currently under investigation by the Football Association (FA) for alleged misconduct during Burnley’s 2-0 defeat to Leeds United on 18 October 2025.
According to multiple reports, the FA has charged Mejbri for allegedly spitting toward Leeds supporters while he was on the substitutes’ bench. The alleged incident took place around the 67th minute of the match. Mejbri later came on as a substitute in the 83rd minute.
The FA’s official statement described the act as “a breach of the Laws of the Game and/or improper or indecent behaviour.” The midfielder has until 28 November 2025 to respond to the charge. If found guilty, he could face a minimum six-match suspension, as spitting is considered one of the most serious offences in football.
The ongoing case has brought unwanted attention to the player, and it is believed that this situation may have influenced his exclusion from Tunisia’s latest squad selection.
Tunisia vs Mauritania Match Report
Tunisia, which has already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, hosted Mauritania at the Hammadi Agrebi Stadium in a friendly that ended in a 1-1 draw.
The Carthage Eagles took the lead in the 38th minute through Firas Chaouat, who scored after capitalising on a loose ball from a corner kick. Mauritania responded early in the second half, with Mohamed Sarr equalising in the 50th minute after a quick counterattack.
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Tunisia failed to find a winning goal. Coach Sami Trabelsi experimented with his lineup, giving opportunities to younger players and fringe squad members. Notably, Hannibal Mejbri was not listed in the matchday squad, surprising many fans who expected to see him feature in midfield.
Also Read: List of Burnley Players Called Up for International Duty – November 2025 Squad Updates
Why Mejbri Was Not Included in the Squad
The Tunisian Football Federation has not issued any official statement explaining Mejbri’s omission. However, several likely factors can be considered:
FA Misconduct Case: Mejbri’s ongoing disciplinary case in England may have prompted the coaching staff to rest him and avoid unnecessary media attention during the investigation.
Club Release Issues: Some clubs reportedly refused to release Tunisian players for these November friendlies. Burnley may have preferred to keep Mejbri in England while his FA case remains unresolved.
Tactical or Fitness Considerations: The match against Mauritania was a friendly, and the coaching staff may have decided to test alternative midfield options. It is also possible that Mejbri was carrying a minor fitness issue.
Overall, the timing of the FA charge and the upcoming hearings make it understandable why Tunisia’s management might have opted not to include him in the first friendly.
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Will Mejbri Miss All Matches This International Break?
Tunisia’s November schedule includes three matches against Mauritania (1-1), Jordan (14 Nov), and Brazil (18 Nov). Since Mejbri did not feature in the opening game, his availability for the remaining fixtures remains uncertain.
If the disciplinary process in England continues, Burnley could restrict his participation to avoid complications. Furthermore, Tunisia’s coaching staff might prefer to maintain stability in midfield rather than include a player under investigation.
Although there is no official confirmation that Mejbri will miss all matches, current signs suggest that he will likely sit out at least one more fixture. His participation against Jordan and Brazil will depend on both Burnley’s approval and the situation surrounding his FA charge.
Conclusion
Hannibal Mejbri’s absence from Tunisia’s 1-1 draw against Mauritania appears to be linked to his ongoing FA misconduct case following the Leeds United incident, along with possible club release issues. Tunisia’s coaching staff may have chosen to leave him out to avoid distractions during the investigation.
The midfielder remains one of Tunisia’s most talented young players, but this controversy could temporarily affect his availability for both club and country. Until the FA delivers its verdict, Mejbri’s international appearances are likely to remain limited. For all updates related to Burnley and world football, follow 96 APK.
FAQs
Q1: Was Hannibal Mejbri officially suspended by Tunisia?
No. Tunisia has not announced any suspension. His exclusion seems to be a precautionary measure rather than a disciplinary one.
Q2: Could the FA charge impact his playing time at Burnley?
Yes. If found guilty, Mejbri could face a lengthy ban, which would prevent him from appearing in Premier League and cup fixtures.
Q3: Did Tunisia explain his absence publicly?
No official explanation has been provided. However, most reports suggest the decision was influenced by his FA case and possible club restrictions.
Q4: Will he return for the Brazil friendly?
It remains uncertain. His availability depends on Burnley’s stance and the ongoing FA investigation.
Q5: What punishment could he face if found guilty?
The standard penalty for spitting is a minimum six-match suspension, though the duration can increase depending on the FA’s findings.
