Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben is a play-actor, say Germany's Matthias Sammer & Stuttgart's Cristian Molinaro

Stuttgart's Cristian Molinaro accuses Bayern Munich’s Arjen Robben of play-acting

Dec 13, 2011 1:48:00 PM

Controversy has erupted in Germany over the Dutch winger's antics and the VfB defender has come out with harsh criticism

Following Bayern Munich's 2-1 win away to Stuttgart on Sunday, a debate has emerged as to whether or not Arjen Robben was guilty of play-acting.

The mercurial Dutchman was twice fouled by Cristian Molinaro in the match, prompting the Italian defender's dismissal after just 30 minutes.

"Robben acted and was very theatrical," the left-back claimed, according to Bild.

Team-mate Martin Harnik also voiced his opinion on the matter, claiming that the Bayern winger anticipates contact and reacts pre-emptively.

"Robben is someone who goes to ground fairly easily and is in the air even before contact," he said.

Even Germany sporting director Matthias Sammer weighed in on the issue, accusing the ex-Chelsea man of unfair play.

"It is clear that Robben waits for such situations [fouls] and makes the most of them," he told Sky.

Robben did gather some support, particularly from Bayern sporting director Christian Nerlinger, who vehemently defended the 27-year-old.

"Arjen is clearly not an actor or a provocateur," he contended. "The fouls were clear. Whomever says otherwise is attempting to distance himself from his own problems."

Throughout his career, Robben has struggled with injuries. This season, a pelvic injury and groin hernia have limited him to just 10 appearances in all competitions.

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