Several Real Madrid players could face suspensions ahead of their crucial Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal, though an appeal process might allow them to avoid immediate punishment, according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett.
Hackett, speaking to Football Insider, stated that key Real Madrid stars, including Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos, are currently under investigation by UEFA following their controversial celebrations in the aftermath of their penalty-shootout victory over Atletico Madrid in the previous round.
The celebrations have been described as “indecent,” and UEFA is expected to take disciplinary action.
Adding to the controversy surrounding Real Madrid’s qualification, former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez’s penalty attempt was ruled out after a VAR review determined that the ball had made contact with both of his feet before entering the net.
This decision allowed the Spanish giants to progress to the quarter-finals, a ruling that further fueled debates over officiating decisions in the competition.
With UEFA still conducting its investigation, there is a possibility that Real Madrid could be without several key players when they face Arsenal on Tuesday, 8 April.
If suspensions are upheld before the game, it would present a significant advantage for Mikel Arteta’s side in the first leg of the tie.
Arsenal Could Benefit From Real Madrid’s Suspensions
Arsenal booked their place in the quarter-finals with a dominant 9-3 aggregate victory over PSV Eindhoven, including a resounding 7-1 win in the second leg played in the Netherlands.
While their opponents now risk losing key players due to disciplinary sanctions, Arsenal might receive a further boost with the potential return of Bukayo Saka.
The England international has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since December, but his return could strengthen Arteta’s squad for the high-stakes encounter.
Hackett highlighted UEFA’s history of taking strong disciplinary action in such cases, suggesting that bans could be imposed on the Real Madrid players.
This has led to optimism among Arsenal fans that their opponents might be severely weakened for the tie.
However, should Real Madrid choose to appeal, the process could extend the timeline of any potential bans, meaning the players might still be available for both the home and away legs.
Hackett emphasized that the club’s decision regarding an appeal will be a key factor in determining whether the players serve their suspensions immediately or at a later stage.
Hackett’s View on UEFA’s Expected Sanctions
Discussing the matter further, Hackett told Football Insider:
“The gestures made by some Real Madrid players during their celebrations were unacceptable.
UEFA has a strong track record of issuing firm punishments in such cases, even though these incidents are relatively rare.
A player making a throat-slitting gesture, for example, is not something that should be tolerated.
“I expect UEFA to impose sanctions, which could see these players ruled out of the match against Arsenal.
However, Real Madrid’s ability to appeal any decision could influence the timing of the suspensions.”
Arsenal’s Champions League Ambitions
Arsenal are aiming to make history by securing their first-ever Champions League title.
The closest they have come to lifting the trophy was in the 2005/06 season when they reached the final but suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Barcelona.
With Arteta under pressure to deliver silverware, a strong Champions League campaign would significantly enhance his reputation and solidify his position at the club.
If UEFA proceeds with suspensions and Real Madrid’s appeal process does not delay them, Arsenal could find themselves in a highly favorable position heading into this crucial quarter-final encounter.