UEFA investigates four Real Madrid players for misconduct

UEFA has announced an investigation into four Real Madrid players — Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dani Ceballos — for alleged inappropriate conduct during a Champions League match two weeks ago.

The incident took place when Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid on penalties (4-2) at the Metropolitano Stadium — following a 2-2 aggregate draw in the round of 16. The European football governing body has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to lead the case, focusing on potential breaches of conduct by the players.

Three of the four under investigation — Rüdiger, Vinícius, and Mbappé — were in the starting lineup. UEFA’s inquiry is reportedly based on specific actions during the post-match celebrations:

• Mbappé was seen making an inappropriate gesture.

• Rüdiger led a celebratory dance around the field after converting the decisive penalty.

If found guilty, the players risk missing the quarter-final match against Arsenal scheduled in two weeks.

“Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course,” stated UEFA’s official announcement.

A similar case occurred last year when Jude Bellingham — now also a Madrid player — received a one-match suspension with a year’s probation and a €30,000 fine for a similar violation at the European Championship.

A similar case occurred last year when Jude Bellingham — now also a Madrid player — received a one-match suspension with a year-long probation and a €30,000 fine for a comparable violation during the European Championship. This precedent may influence UEFA’s decision regarding the current case.