Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid favourites to sign Chelsea icon on a free transfer – Romano
According to the latest update from Fabrizio Romano, Atletico Madrid have become the frontrunners for the signing of Chelsea legend Cesar Azpilicueta this summer.
The Spaniard is set to call time on his successful 11-year spell at Chelsea this summer, with the club and the player mutually agreeing to part ways despite Azpilicueta having signed a new contract until 2024 only last summer.
A legend at Stamford Bridge, Azpilicueta has won every possible trophy with the Blues barring the FA Community Shield.
But with Reece James the first choice at right-back and Malo Gusto set to return after his loan spell, Azpilicueta’s time with Chelsea is ending. And new manager Mauricio Pochettino is willing to let him leave for free given his services to the club.
A move to Inter Milan appeared to be on the horizon for the departing Chelsea captain. Personal terms were also understood to be agreed between the two parties.
However, Atletico Madrid have swooped in for Azpilicueta and look set to fly away with his signature. It is believed that the defender’s family is pushing for a return to Spain as a result of which talks have now reached advanced stages.
As such, the Rojiblancos are now the favourites to secure the signing of Azpilicueta, who will provide depth and cover across the backline.
Furthermore, his leadership and experience will also make him an asset for Diego Simeone’s side as they look to get back on top of the throne in La Liga.
With Romano claiming that talks are very advanced, it might not be very long before Atletico Madrid secure another defender’s signing this summer having practically sealed the capture of Javi Galan.
Atletico Madrid News
UEFA open investigation against multiple Real Madrid players over celebration vs Atletico
More than two weeks after Real Madrid’s controversial win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League Round of 16, UEFA has sent quite the shockwave to the defending European champions.
In a recent statement, UEFA has announced they have started an open investigation against a series of Real Madrid players for the way they celebrated after winning against Atletico Madrid, about two weeks back.
What is the investigation about?
As reported by MARCA, the European governing body is specifically looking into the actions of Antonio Rudiger, Kylian Mbappe, Dani Ceballos, and Vinicius Jr.
The controversy stems from Real Madrid’s celebrations after knocking out city rivals Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
The celebrations took place near the section of the stadium occupied by Real Madrid supporters, but some actions by the players have drawn scrutiny.
“A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of indecent conduct by Real Madrid CF players (Antonio Rudiger, Kylian Mbappe, Daniel Ceballos Fernandez and Vinicius Junior) during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between Club Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid on 12 March 2025,” UEFA said in an official statement.
Rudiger is being investigated for a gesture in which he placed his hand around his neck, while Mbappe reportedly made an inappropriate gesture by touching his genitals.
Vinicius, on the other hand, was involved in heated interactions with Atletico fans both before and after the match, while Ceballos was seen enthusiastically joining the celebrations.
The celebrations from Real Madrid players drew hostility from Atletico Madrid fans for obvious reasons, with the opposition fans resorting to throwing bottles on the pitch.
Jude Bellingham was even among the ones hit by these throwing objects from Atleti fans while Vinicius pointed to the Real Madrid crest on his shirt, which might have played a role in further fuming tension.
Rodrygo, on the other hand, responded to the hostility from Atleti fans by dancing inside the pitch.
UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to review the incidents, although it is very much likely that Real Madrid would appeal against any sanctions placed on the event of any breach.
