UEFA Opens Investigation into Rüdiger, Vinicius, Mbappé & Ceballos After Heated Euroderbi Celebration
The UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has officially opened an investigation into four Real Madrid players—Antonio Rüdiger, Kylian Mbappé, Daniel Ceballos, and Vinicius Júnior—following their controversial celebration at the Metropolitano after eliminating Atlético Madrid from the UEFA Champions League.
The governing body cited "indecent conduct" but did not specify the exact gestures under scrutiny or the expected timeline for the investigation. However, historical precedents suggest potential fines rather than sporting sanctions. In 2019, both Diego Simeone and Cristiano Ronaldo were fined €20,000 for making obscene gestures during a similar high-stakes encounter.
What Sparked the Investigation?
The post-match celebrations by Real Madrid players were particularly intense, with several gestures aimed at the home crowd. Based on video footage, the following actions are under review:
- Antonio Rüdiger made a throat-cutting gesture towards Atlético Madrid fans.
- Vinicius Júnior displayed "15-0" with his fingers before mimicking a crying face as he left the pitch.
- Dani Ceballos, while walking toward the tunnel, allegedly made an offensive arm gesture.
- Kylian Mbappé was caught grabbing his groin during the celebration.
The investigation comes amid heightened scrutiny over fan and player conduct in European competitions. UEFA has previously sanctioned Real Madrid, notably after their match against Manchester City on February 28, where a section of the Santiago Bernabéu was initially ordered to close due to discriminatory chants, though the punishment was later suspended for two years.
What Happens Next?
UEFA’s process remains unclear, but given the available footage, the inquiry is expected to move quickly. The most likely outcome is financial penalties for the players involved, as sporting sanctions seem unlikely. Real Madrid has already signaled its intent to appeal any potential punishments, arguing that the players were merely reacting to provocations from Atlético fans, who reportedly threw bottles and other objects onto the pitch.
For now, the fate of Rüdiger, Vinicius, Mbappé, and Ceballos lies in the hands of UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Committee. The football world awaits UEFA’s final verdict.