UEFA has confirmed it will uphold fines and suspended bans for the trio of Real Madrid players Kylian Mbappé, Dani Ceballos, and Antonio Rüdiger, following incidents in Real Madrid’s Champions League round-of-16 second leg away to Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano stadium, Softfootball can confirm.
In a report published by Cadena SER, the trio were sanctioned after provocative gestures during post-match celebrations sparked a disciplinary case, dubbed the “Metropolitan Case.”
UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has now concluded its review and reaffirmed the penalties: Rüdiger has been fined €40,000, Mbappé €30,000, and Ceballos €20,000, with all three also handed one-match bans suspended unless the offence is repeated.
However, Real Madrid argued that the players’ celebrations were a reaction to objects being thrown from the stands by Atlético supporters after Rüdiger scored the winning penalty in a shootout at the Estadio Metropolitano.
But Atlético claimed the Real Madrid players had provoked the home crowd after humiliating them during the shootout.
However, Vinicius Junior, who made a gesture referencing Real Madrid’s 15 European Cup wins and Atlético’s lack of titles, was also reported but escaped disciplinary action. UEFA’s inspector determined the Brazilian’s actions were not serious enough to warrant punishment.
UEFA has also fined Real Madrid €15,000 after a supporter was caught making a Nazi salute during their quarter-final clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. If a similar incident occurs again, the club will be banned from selling away tickets in UEFA competitions for one season.
Meanwhile, this report might have an effect on the Madrid players as they prepare for the semifinal of the club World Cup. As earlier reported by Softfootball, Madrid is bringing in families to grace the semifinal clash against PSG.
This move is seen as part of Real Madrid’s wider strategy to ensure the players remain mentally and emotionally strong during a high-pressure campaign away from home. The presence of families is expected to create a more familiar and comfortable environment for the team.
