UEFA has initiated an investigation into four Real Madrid players�Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos�following allegations of “indecent conduct” during their Champions League last-16 victory over Atletico Madrid. The European football governing body announced on Thursday that a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to examine the claims, which could lead to sanctions ahead of Real Madrid�s quarter-final first-leg match against Arsenal on April 8.
The investigation stems from the Spanish giants� dramatic penalty shoot-out win against Atletico Madrid on March 12 at the Metropolitano Stadium. The match, which ended a 2-2 aggregate draw, saw Real Madrid, the record 15-time Champions League winners and current title holders, advance after a contentious conclusion. Spanish media outlets have reported that the focus of UEFA�s scrutiny is the players� celebrations following the victory, though specific details of the alleged misconduct remain undisclosed.
The shoot-out itself was marred by controversy when Atletico�s Julian Alvarez had a penalty ruled out. Officials determined that Alvarez had touched the ball twice, a decision that sparked outrage among the home side and their supporters. Tensions ran high throughout the night, and UEFA�s probe now threatens to cast a shadow over Real Madrid�s campaign as they prepare to face Arsenal in the next round.
In a brief statement, UEFA confirmed the investigation, saying, �A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of indecent conduct by Real Madrid CF players.� Neither UEFA nor Real Madrid provided further comment when approached by AFP.
The outcome of the investigation could see Mbappe and Vinicius, two of football�s brightest superstar forwards, alongside defender Rudiger and midfielder Ceballos, facing fines or suspensions. With the quarter-final clash looming, the disciplinary proceedings add an extra layer of intrigue to Real Madrid�s pursuit of yet another Champions League title.
More updates are expected as UEFA�s investigation progresses.
