UEFA has announced the commencement of an investigation into four Real Madrid players concerning their behavior during the Champions League round of 16 second-leg match against Atletico Madrid on March 12th.
The UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will examine allegations of `indecent conduct` by Real Madrid players Antonio Rudiger, Kylian Mbappe, Daniel Ceballos Fernandez, and Vinicius Junior. The alleged incidents occurred during the match against Club Atlético de Madrid on March 12, 2025, as stated by UEFA.
While UEFA has not detailed the specific incidents under scrutiny, reports suggest the investigation is focused on the players` actions during post-match celebrations, according to The Athletic. It is reported that the four players were dancing in view of their own fans, which was also visible to Atletico Madrid supporters. Objects were reportedly thrown at the Real Madrid players by Atletico fans. The allegations are that Rudiger made a throat-slitting gesture, while Ceballos and Mbappe potentially made inappropriate gestures towards the Atletico crowd as they were leaving the field. Vinicius is also alleged to have made a hand gesture.
The potential consequences are currently unclear, but regulations stipulate that `offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or action(s)` or `acting in a provocative, derisory or inflammatory way` can warrant a red card. Any penalties imposed could affect the players` availability for the first leg of the quarterfinal match against Arsenal on April 8th.
This news adds further intrigue to the game in Madrid earlier this month, which was decided by a penalty shootout after extra time, with Real Madrid progressing to the quarterfinals. Real Madrid entered the second leg with a 2-1 advantage, but Atletico Madrid quickly equalized within the first minute with a goal from Conor Gallagher. Vinicius had an opportunity to put Real Madrid ahead with a second-half penalty but missed the target, leading to extra time and ultimately penalties.
Real Madrid ultimately won the penalty shootout 4-2. Alvarez`s penalty was disallowed because referees determined he made two touches on the ball. Rudiger subsequently scored the decisive penalty for Real Madrid.
Adrian Whitmore