Raphinha has issued a public apology after making offensive gestures toward Atlético Madrid supporters following FC Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League elimination, Softfootball reports.
The incident occurred after Barcelona secured a 2-1 win in Madrid but were eliminated 3-2 on aggregate, having lost the first leg 2-0 at home. The tie itself was filled with controversy, including red cards shown to Pau Cubarsí and Eric García, which significantly impacted Barcelona’s chances.
In comments confirmed by Fabrizio Romano on his x handle via an Instagram interaction with DAZN, the Brazilian admitted his actions were out of character. He stated that the gesture which implied Atlético would be knocked out in the next round came in a tense moment after being provoked by a fan.
Romano posted:
Raphinha comments on our exclusive Instagram reel with @DAZNFutbol to apologise to Atletico Madrid fans after gesture “you’ll go home next round”. “Sorry for my gesture — it’s 𝒏𝒐𝒕 something aligned with my values and my character. It happened on a tense moment as replying to a fan who was disrespecting me last night”.
Although sidelined through injury, Raphinha was present at the stadium and became involved post-match while players acknowledged supporters. He was seen directing gestures and comments toward Atlético fans, later describing the tie as a “robbery” due to perceived refereeing inconsistencies.
His apology now aims to calm tensions following an emotionally charged European encounter.
