UEFA and Atletico Madrid to investigate after Diego Simeone and staff involved in Anfield scuffle
The Spaniard was sent off after his team lost to Liverpool
Atletico Madrid have confirmed they will investigate the ugly scenes that overshadowed their 3-2 Champions League defeat at Anfield, where a member of the club’s staff was caught on camera appearing to spit towards supporters.
The incident occurred late in the match, shortly after Virgil van Dijk’s decisive goal. Atletico boss Diego Simeone was sent off after a heated clash with a fan near the visitors’ dugout, sparking a mass confrontation by the touchline.
Footage later emerged suggesting one of Simeone’s backroom staff spat into the crowd during the melee. UEFA, who will review the referee’s and match delegate’s reports, could decide to impose further sanctions.
Atletico have told the media they will carry out their own internal inquiry but declined to issue a public statement. Liverpool, meanwhile, are expected to provide UEFA with CCTV and any other evidence to support the investigation.
Simeone had to be held back as he attempted to confront the supporter involved. Speaking after the match, he admitted his reaction was not ideal:
“It’s never very good when we react as managers, is it? But if there are comments against racism or insults, we can get angry and fight back as well, managers.
“When they scored the third goal, he [the supporter] turned around and insulted me. When I turned around, I am a person and I’m human.”
Pressed on the nature of the remarks, Simeone refused to go into detail:
“I’m not going to get into the exact nature of the insults.
“I don’t want to get involved with that. I have got to stay in my place. I know what went on behind the manager’s bench.
“I can’t solve society’s problems in one press conference. I’ve got to live with it because it exists all over the place.”