Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid rejected all approaches for ‘100% untouchable’ forward in the summer
After a tough start to life in Spain, Atletico Madrid superstar Joao Felix has started to come into his own in the past year or so.
Signed for more than €100 million from SL Benfica back in 2019, the Portuguese forward endured a difficult initiation period as he found it hard to get going in Diego Simeone’s rigid system.
But over time, he has grown into a vital player for Los Rojiblancos. The 22-year-old finished the last season with a return of ten goals and six assists from 35 matches in all competitions. He has already set up three goals in four games in the new season.
Given his unlimited potential, Felix has constantly attracted a lot of admirers from across Europe. And according to Fabrizio Romano, there were several clubs that made an approach for the 22-year-old attacking ace during the summer transfer window.
However, Atletico Madrid were quick to turn down all those offers as they deem Felix as ‘100% untouchable’. So much so that the Colchoneros are unwilling to sell him even for a fee greater than €100 million.
Manager Diego Simeone acknowledged the growth and progress that the 22-year-old had shown through his time at the club, saying: “Joao is at his best moment since we have been working together. He is a lot more mature, stronger, sure of himself.”
Reports earlier this summer indicated that Manchester United went hard after Felix, even lodging an offer worth around €130 million. However, both the player and Atletico Madrid were uninterested in listening to the proposal and swiftly turned it down.
Having kept hold of him, Atleti will be hoping that the 22-year-old Felix goes on to enjoy a big season this time out.
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.
