Atletico Madrid News
Real Madrid coach has one selection doubt heading into the Atletico Madrid clash
Real Madrid are gearing up for a difficult contest ahead as they take on cross-town rivals Atletico in the Madrid derby on Sunday.
Although the reigning European champions are coming on the back of a 39-game unbeaten streak, Atletico Madrid have proven to be their most challenging opposition, with their last defeat coming against Los Colchoneros about a year ago.
Team selection, therefore, could prove to be critical for Real Madrid in this game, especially considering the fact that the team will be without the services of multiple key players, including Kylian Mbappe.
Only Real Madrid doubt vs Atletico
According to MARCA (h/t Madrid Xtra), the Real Madrid starting XI against Atletico Madrid is pretty much set, with the majority of the key players likely to retain their position in the eleven.
However, the recent injury to Mbappe could force Ancelotti to make a decision between Luka Modric and Eduardo Camavinga.
Camavinga has recently returned from an injury and started group training. The Frenchman is held in high regard by coach Ancelotti due to the quality he brings to the table.
Camavinga is indeed a hard-working midfielder who can bring more balance to the team, while his athleticism could be critical in taking on Atleti.
However, having only recently returned from an injury, it is doubtful whether Camavinga will be at the top of his game, which is where Modric comes into the fray.
The Croatian international is among the oldest professionals in the top five leagues. But his performances continue to be excellent and his leadership could be useful for Real Madrid this weekend.
It was reported earlier that Modric is a favourite to complete a four-man Real Madrid midfield on Sunday, But with Camavinga now also an option, it will be interesting to see who starts against Los Colchoneros this weekend.
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.
