Raphinha’s anger after FC Barcelona’s Champions League elimination at the hands of Atlético Madrid could have serious disciplinary consequences.
At the end of the match, the Brazilian winger sharply criticized the referee, claiming his team had been unfairly treated. He even described the match as “stolen,” a statement that is not sitting well with European football authorities.
“I think the round was completely stolen from us. It’s unbelievable the decisions they made. I don’t know how many fouls Atlético committed today—and the referee
According to several Spanish media outlets, including Mundo Deportivo, UEFA may launch proceedings against the Blaugrana winger.
If UEFA deems his comments excessive, Raphinha risks a suspension that could sideline him for several Champions League matches—a sanction that would only add to Barcelona’s frustration after an already tough elimination.
Meanwhile after a provocative gesture following their elimination from the Champions League competition despite victory over Atlético in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, Raphinha has issued an apology to Atletico fans on social media.
The Brazilian star who wasn’t even on the pitch has faced criticism after their elimination. After the match, in addition to criticizing the referee, Raphinha made a gesture towards the Colchoneros fans, implying they would be knocked out in the next round.
On social media, the Barça forward apologized: “I apologize for my gesture, which does not reflect my values or who I am. It was done in a tense moment, in response to a fan who disrespected me.”
