A simple photo between kids and a professional footballer has spiralled into controversy in Argentina, after Newell's Old Boys sanctioned youth players for posing with Rosario Central's Ignacio Malcorra, a move seen as a shocking escalation of the city's fierce football rivalry.

Newell's, the Rosario club that once nurtured a young Lionel Messi, suspended the academy players from training and revoked their scholarships for three months after discovering their photo with Malcorra, who has played for bitter rivals Rosario Central during five seasons.

The decision, which club officials framed as a protective measure following reported fan threats, has drawn strong criticism from both the public and prominent figures, while Malcorra himself expressed his dismay at the row.

"I feel sad for t

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