Raphinha faces UEFA ban for comments after Barcelona's Champions League exit
Barcelona winger Raphinha is facing a potential three-match Champions League ban following his comments and gestures in the aftermath of his side's quarter-final defeat to Atletico Madrid. According to reports from Spanish outlet MD, UEFA is investigating the Brazilian international for allegedly discrediting the sport and the governing body after Barcelona's 3-2 aggregate loss on 14 April 2026.
Raphinha, who was an unused substitute and watched the match from the bench at the Metropolitano Stadium, told media after the game that "the game was robbed." He further criticised the officiating, stating, "The refereeing has been terrible; it's unbelievable the decisions he's made. Atletico committed countless fouls, and the referee didn't even show them a yellow card. I really want to understand his fear that Barca might get through to the next round." MD reports that these comments could constitute a breach of UEFA's basic code of conduct for players.
The potential sanction is said to mirror a three-game ban handed to Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar in 2019 for similar criticism of officials after a Champions League defeat. Any ban would be served in next season's competition, a significant blow for the player and club. Furthermore, Diario AS notes that Raphinha's gestures towards Atletico Madrid fans after the final whistle are also under scrutiny, referencing previous fines for Real Madrid players at the same venue for similar actions.
This incident adds a sour postscript to a disappointing European campaign for Barcelona, who were eliminated at the quarter-final stage. Raphinha, a key figure for the Blaugrana since his move from Leeds United in 2022, has been a regular starter when fit. His potential absence from the group stages of next season's Champions League would force manager Hansi Flick to adjust his attacking options significantly.
The case now rests with UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body, which will review the evidence before making a final decision. The governing body has historically taken a firm stance on public criticism of match officials, viewing it as detrimental to the integrity of the competition. Barcelona have not yet issued an official statement regarding the potential disciplinary proceedings against their player.
