Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus could be punished for his altercation with Atletico Madrid defender Marc Poubil on Tuesday night, putting his chances of playing in the Champions League final in jeopardy. Video footage taken at the Emirates Stadium showed Pabil trying to invade the Gunners’ post-match celebrations, but Jesus took exception. The Brazilian was then caught on camera slapping Pabil in the face.
It happened shortly after Pubil shoved Victor Gokeres from behind, who was already celebrating. The Swedish forward was arm in arm with Cristian Mosquera and Jesus, but Jesus was furious. Footage showed Mosquera trying to push Pubil away, but Jesus appeared to react much more forcefully, appearing to strike his opponent. Miles Lewis-Skelly and Declan Rice eventually diffused the situation and forced Pabil to head into the tunnel.
According to football.london, UEFA is currently reviewing the official report from the semi-final, after which proceedings could be initiated and disciplinary action taken against any reported incidents.
UEFA’s Disciplinary Committee renders its verdict based on the post-match report submitted by the match agent. Jesus did not come on as a substitute on a night that featured several heated moments.
Diego Simeone has had a heated exchange with Arsenal transfer director Andrea Berta, with whom he previously worked in the Spanish capital.
Jesus has played a peripheral role in this season’s Champions League, mainly being brought on from the bench by Mikel Arteta.
The former Manchester City striker has appeared in every final round but now faces uncertainty over whether he will be able to play in the final in Budapest.
Arsenal will play the winner between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain at the Puskas Arena at the end of the Premier League season.
The Gunners have just over three weeks left to complete their domestic campaign, so the focus shifts completely to the European stage.
Tuesday’s heated post-match showdown did little to dampen the mood for long as Arsenal players threw themselves into jubilant festivities with fans in north London.
Match winner Bukayo Saka said on Amazon Prime: “Hey, you’re trying to steal me away from the celebration! It’s so beautiful.
“What it means to us and what it means to our fans. We’re all very happy.
“This match was a high-pressure match and meant a lot to both sides. I’m satisfied that we were able to control it well and advance to the final.”
