Kylian Mbappé (26) and Vinícius Júnior (24), among other key players from Real Madrid, are under investigation by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) for inappropriate behavior during a match.
The Associated Press reported on the 28th (Korea time) that the UEFA has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to investigate the inappropriate behavior of Real players raised after the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid held on the 13th at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, Spain.
The investigation targets four Real Madrid players: Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dani Ceballos.
UEFA did not specify any particular charges, but it is reported that actions provoking the opposing team's fans immediately after advancing to the quarterfinals have become an issue.
At the center of the controversy are the celebrations of Mbappé and Rüdiger.
A video that circulated on social media showed Mbappé clutching his groin immediately after the conclusion of the penalty shootout. TV broadcasts captured Rüdiger seemingly making a throat-slitting gesture towards Atlético fans.
At that time, Real Madrid secured their spot in the quarterfinals by defeating Atlético Madrid after the penalty shootout.
If UEFA determines that the actions warrant disciplinary measures, there is a possibility of suspension. In that case, the four players currently under investigation could miss the quarterfinal match against Arsenal scheduled for next month.
Real Madrid will play the first leg against Arsenal in London, England, on the 9th, and the second leg in Madrid, Spain, on the 17th.
[Photo] ⓒGetty Images (unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited), AS
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