UEFA have launched an investigation into four Real Madrid players for alleged "indecent conduct" during their Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.
Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger and Dani Ceballos are all facing disciplinary action following an incident in the second leg of their last-16 tie on March 12.
A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate the allegations.
The specific nature of the alleged "indecent conduct" has not been detailed by UEFA in their announcement today.
Kylian Mbappe could be banned by UEFA ahead of Real Madrid's Champions League clash against Arsenal
Reuters
The incident occurred during Real Madrid's victory over city rivals Atletico in the Champions League round of 16.
Real Madrid advanced to the quarterfinals after winning a penalty shootout, with Rudiger scoring the decisive spot kick.
Following his goal, Rudiger led teammates in what was described as "an exuberant dancing run around Atletico's home field."
Any ban imposed could force players to miss Madrid's quarter-final first leg against Arsenal on April 8.
This potential absence could hand Arsenal a significant boost in their Champions League campaign.
The Gunners would face a considerably weakened Real Madrid side if all four players were ruled out of the fixture at the Emirates.
Mbappe and Vinicius Junior's absence would particularly impact Real Madrid's attacking options against Mikel Arteta's side.
Real Madrid's progression to the quarter-finals came after a tense second leg where Atletico won 1-0, levelling the aggregate score at 2-2 before Los Blancos emerged victorious on penalties.
Bukayo Saka is expected to return for the crucial first leg at the Emirates.
Arsenal fans have taken to social media to express their thoughts on the investigation, with many calling for suspensions.
Real Madrid could be missing four players soon if UEFA find them guilty
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"2 match UEFA suspensions all round seems like the reasonable response," wrote one supporter on X.
Another added: "Two game bans seems a fitting punishment imo."
Some fans went even further, with one writing: "Ban them all till next season."
If all four players were banned, Arsenal would arguably have a better opportunity to defeat the Spanish giants.
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The case remains under development, with UEFA yet to announce any decisions regarding potential punishments.
Former Arsenal loanee Ceballos is among those being investigated, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming fixture.
The first leg takes place at the Emirates on April 8, with the return leg in Madrid scheduled for the following week.
Real Madrid have not yet commented publicly on the investigation.
