Real Madrid can finally breathe a sigh of relief. With Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rüdiger, Kylian Mbappé and Dani Ceballos all under the threat of a sanction ahead of the clash against Arsenal, UEFA has now delivered a reassuring verdict.
It’s official — Real Madrid now knows UEFA’s final decision. The threat looming over Antonio Rüdiger, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappé and Dani Ceballos has been officially lifted. After several days of suspense, UEFA has handed down a verdict that is rather lenient for the Madrid players. Antonio Rüdiger will indeed be available to face Arsenal next Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.
Lenient sanctions for the Madrid players
UEFA’s decision brings an end to the investigation into the actions of the four Madrid players. They had come under scrutiny following their controversial celebration at the Metropolitano Stadium after their victory against Atlético Madrid in the round of 16. That moment of jubilation had raised concerns about a possible breach of UEFA’s code of conduct.
All players involved have escaped with nothing more than financial penalties and suspended bans, though Rüdiger was the main focus of the disciplinary concerns. His gesture was deemed more serious than those of his teammates. Nevertheless, the disciplinary committee opted for a €40,000 fine for the German defender along with a one-match suspended ban, while Dani Ceballos received a €20,000 fine.
Kylian Mbappé has been handed a €30,000 fine and a one-match suspended ban. Finally, Vinicius Junior, who had been accused of taunting and clashing with opposition supporters, has escaped any punishment. For clarity, the suspended bans — which would only be activated in the event of a repeat offence within the next twelve months — mean that all four players are free to take to the pitch in London.
Good news overshadowed by Tchouaméni’s absence
This announcement comes as a huge relief not only for the players but also for Real Madrid supporters, who feared their squad might be weakened ahead of such a crucial encounter. However, one cloud still hangs over Carlo Ancelotti’s plans: he will be without Aurélien Tchouaméni. The French midfielder is suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards, and his absence could prove significant to the team’s balance.
So while Real Madrid can breathe easier, caution still prevails. With this verdict, the Madrid players will need to remain exemplary in their conduct to avoid triggering the suspended bans. The team can now fully focus on their next challenge: securing a strong result in London to take a step closer to the semi-finals.
Leave a Reply