Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone will be able to take his place in the dugout against Juventus next week after avoiding a ban for his explicit gesture.
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body announced on Thursday that Simeone would instead be fined €20,000.
The former Inter and Lazio midfielder caused controversy with his celebration after Juve had fallen a goal behind in their Champions League last-16 first leg, turning towards the fans at the Wanda Metropolitano and grabbing his crotch.
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone will be able to take his place in the dugout against Juventus next week after avoiding a ban for his explicit gesture.
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body announced on Thursday that Simeone would instead be fined €20,000.
The former Inter and Lazio midfielder caused controversy with his celebration after Juve had fallen a goal behind in their Champions League last-16 first leg, turning towards the fans at the Wanda Metropolitano and grabbing his crotch.
Although he insisted the gesture ‘came from his heart’, many viewed it as a protest towards VAR, which penalised his side twice.
Nonetheless, AS explains the Argentine attended the hearing and apologised for his actions, arguing it was a spontaneous response, which emphasised the character of his team.
The second leg of the tie takes place in Turin next Tuesday, with Atleti 2-0 up on aggregate.