Crystal Palace were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw in the Europa League after Daichi Kamada scored in stoppage time to rescue a point. The equaliser came with the Eagles down to 10 men, sparing them another disappointing result in a difficult period.
However, the result was accompanied by an unexpected development involving Disasi, who was not included after a decision made by Sage on Thursday afternoon.
The Palace manager was asked about the 28-year-old defender following the game but offered no explanation for his absence.
“It’s a decision that I made this afternoon (Thursday),” Sage said. “It’s an internal decision, I don't want to comment on it.”
When a Sky Sports journalist attempted to return to the subject, the Frenchman remained unwilling to elaborate.
“It’s nice to have the same question, but I said that I didn't want to comment.”
Sage's refusal to discuss the matter leaves questions surrounding Disasi's omission, although the manager did not disclose the reasons behind his decision. There has been no confirmation of any disciplinary issue or disagreement involving the defender.
The situation adds another talking point at Selhurst Park, where results have been a source of frustration. Palace had looked in danger of another defeat against Hoffenheim before Kamada's late intervention, with the draw offering some relief after a difficult evening.
Sage has previously shown that he is prepared to make decisions involving players who do not meet his expectations. Earlier in the campaign, Jaydee Canvot and Evann Guessand were also sanctioned by the manager.
But he declined to draw any comparison with those cases when questioned about Disasi, insisting that the matter was internal.
For now, the defender's absence remains unexplained. Palace have avoided defeat against Hoffenheim, but Sage's comments have ensured that attention will remain on the situation surrounding Disasi as the club look to improve their results.