Raphinha risks ban after explosive rant and gesture to Atlético fans

April 15, 2026 Oliver Obel

Barcelona’s Champions League elimination at Atlético Madrid on Tuesday could have further repercussions, with forward Raphinha potentially facing disciplinary action after criticising the match officials, as first reported by SportBible.

While the result ended Barcelona’s European campaign, much of the post-match discussion has centered on controversial decisions during the game.

Controversial night in Madrid

According to SportBible’s match report, Barcelona started aggressively at the Metropolitano, quickly overturning their deficit. Lamine Yamal scored inside the opening minutes, before Ferran Torres added a second to level the tie on aggregate.

Atlético Madrid responded before halftime, with Ademola Lookman scoring what proved to be the decisive goal to send Diego Simeone’s side into the semi-finals.

Barcelona thought they had regained the lead early in the second half through Torres, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for offside. The situation worsened later when Eric García was sent off for denying Alexander Sørloth a clear goalscoring opportunity.

SportBible also noted that Barcelona players appealed for a penalty after a challenge on Dani Olmo, a moment that contributed to their frustration.

Raphinha’s reaction draws attention

Raphinha, who missed the match through injury, was nonetheless at the center of the post-match fallout. Speaking to reporters after the game, he strongly criticised the officiating.

“The game was completely robbed. The referee had a lot of problems. Some of the decisions he took were incredible. I don't know how many fouls Atlético made, and he didn't book them,” he said.

“It’s human to commit one error, but for it to happen again in another game? We played really well, but this tie was robbed from us. It was tough, especially when we see that we needed to put in three times the effort to win the match. I really want to understand why [the referee] is so scared of Barça getting through the tie.”

As reported by SportBible, the Brazil international also gestured toward Atlético supporters after the final whistle, appearing to question how far the Spanish side would progress.

Possible disciplinary consequences

UEFA could now assess whether Raphinha’s comments breach its disciplinary rules. Under Article 11, players may face sanctions for statements or conduct considered insulting or damaging to the reputation of the game.

A similar case occurred in 2019, when Neymar was suspended after criticising officials following Paris Saint-Germain’s defeat to Manchester United. That ban was later reduced on appeal by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Whether UEFA takes action against Raphinha remains unclear, but the incident has added further controversy to Barcelona’s exit.

Barcelona return to La Liga action against Celta Vigo on April 22.

Sources: SportBible, UEFA disciplinary regulations