Barcelona could be dealing with fresh trouble off the pitch after their Champions League elimination, with Raphinha now at risk of disciplinary action following his fiery remarks after the clash against Atletico Madrid.
According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, UEFA are reviewing the winger’s comments, which could result in a suspension of up to three matches.
If the sanction is confirmed, it would be served in the next edition of the UEFA Champions League, potentially impacting Barcelona’s European campaign before it even begins.
What’s the story?
The controversy stems from Raphinha’s reaction after the second leg at the Metropolitano.
Despite not featuring due to injury, the Brazilian was present with the squad and did not hold back when speaking to the media following the match.
His comments quickly gained attention due to their direct criticism of the officiating.
“It was a stolen match; the refereeing was full of problems. The decisions they made were unbelievable.
“Atletico Madrid committed I don’t know how many fouls and weren’t shown a single yellow card. I want to understand the fear of Barcelona going through,” he said after the match.
Raphinha was not happy with the officiating. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
While his words reflected the frustration within the Barcelona camp, such statements can carry consequences under UEFA regulations.
Facing UEFA action
Now, as per the aforementioned outlet, UEFA’s disciplinary framework is clear when it comes to public criticism of officials.
In that context, Article 11 of the governing body’s Disciplinary Code outlines the standards expected from players and clubs.
The regulations state that any‘insulting behaviour or behaviour that otherwise infringes the basic standards of decent conduct’ or behaviour ‘that brings the sport of football, and UEFA in particular, into disrepute’ shall be grounds for sanction.
Given the tone and nature of Raphinha’s comments, UEFA could interpret them as falling within those parameters, which opens the door for a suspension.
As things stand, a final decision is yet to be confirmed.
But if the ban is enforced, Barcelona could be without one of their key attacking players at the start of their next Champions League campaign.
