Why Dani Carvajal was angry with Bukayo Saka?

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal could be hit with a UEFA suspension following an altercation with Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka during Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final clash.

The incident occurred at halftime as tensions flared following Saka’s audacious Panenka penalty attempt in the first half.

Mikel Arteta’s side secured a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu, sealing a 5-1 aggregate win to book their place in the semi-finals against Paris Saint-Germain. After a missed penalty by Saka in the first half, the England international redeemed himself with a delicate chip over Thibaut Courtois in the 65th minute. Vinícius Júnior briefly leveled for Madrid before Gabriel Martinelli’s late winner silenced the home crowd.

As players headed to the tunnel at halftime, Carvajal—who is currently sidelined with a knee injury—approached Saka and grabbed him by the neck while exchanging words. When Saka attempted to walk away, the Spanish right-back held onto his arm, forcing an Arsenal staff member to intervene.

Reports from Marca suggest Carvajal was angered by Saka’s decision to attempt a Panenka penalty, viewing it as disrespectful. Ironically, Carvajal himself executed a successful Panenka in Spain’s 2023 Nations League final shootout against Croatia.

Since Carvajal was not registered in Madrid’s matchday squad due to injury, UEFA regulations prohibit him from being in the technical area during the game. A precedent was set in 2014 when Xabi Alonso received a one-match ban for celebrating on the touchline during the Champions League final despite being suspended.

If UEFA takes action, Carvajal could miss Real Madrid’s next European fixture—a potential headache for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad. Meanwhile, Arsenal march on to face PSG, with Saka’s composure under pressure proving crucial once again.