Dani Carvajal Faces UEFA Ban for Tunnel Incident with Bukayo Saka

MADRID, Spain — Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal could face disciplinary action from UEFA following a heated encounter with Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka during the Champions League match on Wednesday night.

The incident occurred at halftime as the two teams made their way to the dressing rooms at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Carvajal, who has been sidelined with an ACL injury since October, confronted Saka after the Englishman attempted a Panenka penalty, which was saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Witnesses reported that Carvajal raised his hands toward Saka and placed a hand on the back of Saka’s neck. This prompted an immediate reaction from the Arsenal winger, who pushed back. Staff members from both teams, including Arsenal substitute Ben White, quickly intervened to separate the two.

According to Spanish media, Carvajal was upset over Saka’s perceived “disrespectful” penalty attempt, which he felt was a breach of sportsmanship. Despite the tension, Saka had already redeemed himself by scoring a goal in the second half, contributing to Arsenal’s progression to the semi-finals after a 5-1 aggregate victory over Real Madrid.

Carvajal’s actions may violate UEFA regulations, as he was not on the matchday squad and unauthorized in the technical area during the game. Historical precedence furthers concerns for Carvajal, as a similar incident involving former Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso in 2014 resulted in a suspension. Alonso was banned after celebrating from the stands during a match, leading to a prohibition from the pitchside area in subsequent fixtures.

UEFA disciplinary regulations state that sanctions could include a one-match ban for participating in a match while ineligible, with potential for an additional three-match suspension in cases of assault. Carvajal faces the possibility of a four-match ban, which would exacerbate Real Madrid’s difficulties as they navigate the remaining competitions in La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti addressed the overall disappointment in a post-match press conference. He said, “It’s a disappointment to go out of the Champions League, it’s normal to think so. We have to manage the sad part just as we manage the happy part.” Ancelotti emphasized that the team must focus on their upcoming matches amid the turbulence.