Real Madrid stars, including Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dani Ceballos, are under investigation by UEFA for alleged “indecent conduct” during their Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid, BBC reports.
UEFA, European football’s governing body, announced on Thursday that it has appointed a disciplinary inspector to review the unspecified allegations that arose from the Round of 16 match on March 12. The controversy escalated after a viral video surfaced on social media, showing Mbappé grabbing his crotch during on-field celebrations after Madrid’s penalty shootout victory.
If found guilty, the players could face suspension, potentially forcing them to miss Madrid’s highly anticipated quarter final first-leg clash against Arsenal on April 8.
Madrid secured their place in the Champions League quarter finals following a dramatic shootout win over Atlético, with Rüdiger scoring the decisive penalty. The celebrations that followed saw Madrid players engaging in exuberant dancing on Atlético’s home turf, further fueling tensions.
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This is not the first time UEFA has taken action over such gestures. In a similar case at last year’s European Championship, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham received a one-game suspended ban after making a similar hand gesture following his last-minute equalizer for England against Slovakia. UEFA found Bellingham guilty of “violating the basic rules of decent conduct” and fined him $32,400.
As UEFA’s investigation unfolds, Real Madrid could face a major setback if their key players receive bans ahead of their crucial Champions League fixture. The club has yet to comment on the allegations.
