Real Madrid’s Champions League victory over city rivals Atlético Madrid has taken another twist, as UEFA confirmed, Thursday, that four players — including Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior — are under investigation for alleged “indecent conduct” during the round-of-16 second-leg encounter on March 12.
Madrid edged past Atlético in a tense penalty shootout at the Metropolitano Stadium, securing a spot in the quarterfinals with a 4-2 victory on penalties after the tie ended 2-2 on aggregate.
However, celebrations quickly turned controversial as video footage circulating online appeared to show Mbappé making an obscene gesture toward Atlético fans, while Antonio Rüdiger and Dani Ceballos also became embroiled in the post-match antics.
UEFA Opens Formal Investigation
In a statement released Thursday, UEFA confirmed it had appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to examine the allegations.
“Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course,” the governing body stated, leaving Madrid anxiously awaiting potential sanctions.
While Ceballos did not feature in the game, Mbappé, Vinícius, and Rüdiger all played crucial roles.
Rüdiger, who netted the decisive spot-kick, was seen leading a boisterous victory lap with teammates, while Mbappé’s celebratory actions sparked particular outrage.
The Gesture That Could Lead to a Ban
Footage shared widely on social media shows Mbappé grabbing his crotch in a provocative manner, reminiscent of a similar incident involving Jude Bellingham at last summer’s European Championship.
The English midfielder, also a Real Madrid player, received a one-game ban (suspended for a year) and a €30,000 fine for a comparable gesture after scoring a last-minute equalizer for England against Slovakia.
A potential ban would be a significant blow to Madrid, as any suspension could see the implicated players miss their Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Arsenal on April 8.
Madrid Faces Potential Fallout
Sources close to Real Madrid insist that the players’ actions were “taken out of context.”
“It was an emotional moment after an intense match. There was no intention to offend anyone,” a Madrid representative told reporters.
Atlético fans, however, have reacted furiously, with some calling for UEFA to impose harsh penalties.
“This isn’t just about rivalry; it’s about respect. If UEFA doesn’t act, it sets a dangerous precedent,” one Atlético supporter posted online.
Meanwhile, Rüdiger, known for his passionate celebrations, shrugged off the controversy.
“Football is about emotions. We fought hard, we won, and we celebrated—nothing more,” he said when asked about the post-match scenes.
A Growing Pattern?
The incident is a growing scrutiny of player conduct on the field, particularly regarding provocative celebrations.
With UEFA now investigating, Real Madrid may face disciplinary measures that could impact their pursuit of a record-extending 15th Champions League title.
