Diego Simeone hit with UEFA charge following Anfield altercation
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Image Credits: Imago ImagesThe passionate touchline theatrics that have become synonymous with Diego Simeone finally caught up with the Atletico Madrid manager on Wednesday night, as UEFA launched disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine following his explosive confrontation with Liverpool fans at Anfield.
The drama unfolded in the dying moments of what had already been a pulsating Champions League encounter between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid.
After Virgil van Dijk’s dramatic 92nd-minute header secured a 3-2 victory for the hosts, celebrations in the stands quickly turned into something far more unsavory.
Simeone, visibly incensed by what he described as 90 minutes of sustained verbal abuse from supporters positioned behind the technical area, made two separate approaches toward the Liverpool fans before being physically restrained by stewards and members of his own coaching staff.
Television cameras captured the 55-year-old gesturing angrily toward the crowd before referee Maurizio Mariani showed him a straight red card.
James Pearce of the Athletic has reported that Liverpool FC also attracted charges due to Reds fans throwing objects from the stands:
“UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone after he was sent off following an altercation with Liverpool fans at Anfield during their Champions League clash last week,” he reported.
“Liverpool have also been charged by European football’s governing body over their fans throwing objects during their 3-2 victory.”
The governing body has requested CCTV footage from Liverpool to assist with their investigation.
For Simeone, the potential consequences could be significant.
It is suggested he faces a minimum one-match ban, with fines potentially ranging from €20,000 to €50,000.
However, given the serious nature of the allegations surrounding his staff’s conduct, the punishment could extend to a maximum three-match suspension
Speaking to Movistar after the game last week, Simeone explained how he was abused for the entirety of the clash at Anfield:
“There have been insults all match, but hey, I’m the one who has to stay calm and endure everything: insults, gestures, etc,” he told Movistar?
“(Liverpool) been talking about putting on a good show, but they insult you all match from behind and you can’t say anything, because I’m the coach.”
“My reaction to the insult isn’t justifiable, but you don’t know what it’s like to be insulted for 90 minutes non stop.
“And of course, when the opponent’s goal is just around the corner, you turn around and they keep insulting you, and with the tension, what happens is what happens.”
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