England’s Jude Bellingham is facing trouble with UEFA after celebrating his goal in the European Championship round of 16 against Slovakia on Sunday (30 June 2024).
The European Football Union announced on Monday (July 1, 2024) that its Ethics and Disciplinary Committee would be conducting an investigation into a “possible breach of the basic rules of good conduct.”
It appears to be an obscene gesture by the Champions League winner from Real Madrid after his equaliser shortly before the end of regular time in front of the Slovakian bench. Bellingham scored the goal with an overhead kick in the sixth minute of stoppage time that saved England and sent them into extra time. In the end, the British won 2:1 (0:1, 1:1).
Bellingham writes: “Nothing but respect for Slovakia”
Bellingham had previously announced on X that it was a joke with friends in the stands. “Nothing but respect for how the Slovakian team played today,” wrote the 21-year-old.
He had already caused a stir with his shout of joy after the spectacular overhead kick. “Who else?” he shouted, trying to defend himself against the criticism of the past few days.
“Playing for England is a nice feeling, but the pressure is high and people talk a lot of rubbish,” said the young star in the post-match press conference, adding smugly: “It’s nice to be able to give them a little something back.”
