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.
Atletico Madrid News
A leader in waiting – Real Madrid midfielder commands great respect in the locker room
Jude Bellingham was the player in focus during Real Madrid’s controversial win over Atletico Madrid in Champions League Round of 16 last night.
The Englishman was seen showing his frustration towards his own teammates multiple times, as he was unhappy with the work-ethic provided by some of his own mates.
Bellingham’s attitude might have drawn mixed feelings among the Madrid faithful, but for him and the dressing room, it was a sign of strength from a player who is fast-becoming a key leadership figure within the camp.
Jude Bellingham: A leader-in-waiting
A recent report from The Athletic has highlighted Bellingham’s growing role in the Real Madrid dressing room.
Despite being just 21 years old and in only his second season with the club, Bellingham has already established himself as a player his teammates look up to.
The former Borussia Dortmund starlet demands the highest standards on the pitch, a quality that was evident when he lashed out at Vinicius Jr. during extra time for not tracking back effectively.
Bellingham’s vocal leadership, coupled with his brilliant performances on the pitch make him an indispensable figure in the Real Madrid team. As such, he commands a great deal of respect within the dressing room.
With veterans like Luka Modric, Dani Carvajal and Antonio Rudiger seemingly getting old, Bellingham has emerged as a ‘leader-in-waiting’ for Los Blancos.
When the time comes, the Englishman should be more than ready to become the next great leader at Real Madrid, following the footsteps of many before him, including Sergio Ramos, Pepe and Cristiano Ronaldo – vocal leaders who can spur the team up at any given moment
