Four Real Madrid stars, including Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, could face suspension for their Champions League quarter-final clash with Arsenal as UEFA launches an investigation into allegations of misconduct.
UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to examine claims of inappropriate behavior involving Mbappé (of Cameroonian descent), Antonio Rüdiger (of Sierra Leonean descent), Dani Ceballos, and Vinícius (who is also said to be of Cameroonian descent) during Madrid’s last-16 second-leg victory over Atlético Madrid on March 12.
The governing body has not specified the exact allegations but confirmed that evidence is being reviewed.
Footage circulating online appears to show Mbappé making a controversial gesture toward Atlético fans while celebrating Real Madrid’s penalty shootout victory.
The other three players were also seen participating in celebrations deemed provocative. If found guilty, the players could face suspensions or hefty fines.
The case bears similarities to an incident involving Jude Bellingham at Euro 2024, where he received a €30,000 fine and a suspended one-match ban for a similar gesture. If UEFA follows that precedent, Mbappé and his teammates could face similar punishments.
This development presents a potential boost for Arsenal as they prepare to host Madrid at the Emirates Stadium in early April.
Losing key players like Mbappé and Vinícius would be a significant blow to Carlo Ancelotti’s squad in their bid for European glory.
In a statement, UEFA confirmed the investigation: “A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of indecent conduct by Real Madrid CF players (Antonio Rüdiger, Kylian Mbappé, Daniel Ceballos Fernández and Vinicius Junior) during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match between Club Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid CF on 12 March 2025.
“Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course.”
