Real Madrid fear key star will be banned for Champions League clash as Carlo Ancelotti’s side await verdicts on Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos.

The European governing body has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to assess their conduct during and after the dramatic penalty shootout victory against Atletico on March 12. The main focus of the investigation revolves around certain gestures made by the players, with Rudiger and Mbappe at the center of the controversy.

Among the allegations, Rudiger is facing the most serious accusation. The German defender was captured on camera appearing to make a throat-slitting gesture, reportedly directed at Atletico Madrid fans. Such an action has been interpreted as threatening, which could lead to a harsher punishment compared to his teammates.

Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe also finds himself under the spotlight, with video footage circulating online allegedly showing him making a crotch-grabbing gesture while celebrating. The clip has sparked debate over whether his actions violated UEFA’s code of conduct.

According to Marca, Mbappe, Vinicius, and Ceballos are likely to receive fines, with UEFA expected to impose a one-match suspended ban. This means that unless they repeat similar behavior within the next year, they will not have to serve the suspension. However, Rudiger’s situation remains uncertain. UEFA officials have reportedly taken a dim view of his gesture, viewing it as more provocative and aggressive than the other incidents under review. While a fine and deferred suspension remains a possible outcome, there is concern within Real Madrid that the German defender could be banned immediately, ruling him out of their crucial Champions League quarter-final first leg.

With UEFA set to announce its verdict on Friday, Real Madrid are on edge, knowing that any suspensions could disrupt their preparations for a massive showdown with Arsenal. Los Blancos are set to travel to London for the first leg of their quarter-final against Mikel Arteta’s side on April 8, before hosting the return fixture a week later at the Santiago Bernabeu.