England star Jude Bellingham is unlikely to be banned for the Three Lions' Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland, according to a report.
UEFA launched an investigation into a seemingly crude gesture made by the Real Madrid man following his dramatic equaliser for England against Slovakia.
The 21-year-old is under investigation by the governing body for a "potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct" after he gestured towards his crotch, seemingly directed at the Slovakia bench on Sunday.
If found guilty, UEFA has the authority to issue suspensions for such offences, which led to concerns that Bellingham could potentially miss England's next match against Switzerland in Dusseldorf.
Following the last 16 tie, Bellingham said on social media that his actions were an "inside joke" aimed not at the opposition but at a group of "close friends" seated nearby in the stands.
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Bellingham to avoid Euro 2024 quarter-final ban
While a final decision is yet to be made, The Mirror now report that Bellingham is unlikely to face a ban from UEFA, with a fine being the most probable outcome if he is found guilty.
Previous instances of similar gestures, such as those from Cristiano Ronaldo and Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone in the 2019 Champions League, resulted in both individuals being fined around £17,000 each but no bans were handed out.
In a statement issued on Monday, UEFA said: "A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct by the English Football Association player, Jude Bellingham, having allegedly occurred in the scope of this match.
"Information on this matter will be made available in due course."
The report adds that Bellingham's case is complex due to the ambiguity surrounding what qualifies as an "obscene gesture," as well as the potential challenge of proving that the Real Madrid star intended to target the Slovakia bench.
The issue arose after Bellingham scored a sensational overhead kick to level the match against Slovakia deep inside stoppage time to force extra time.
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Bellingham feeling the pressure at Euro 2024?
Bellingham entered the Euros carrying massive expectations at just 21 years old, largely fueled by his standout performances for Real Madrid last season.
The attacking midfielder played a pivotal role in helping Los Blancos secure the La Liga and Champions League double, scoring several crucial goals along the way.
Following his match-saving strike against Slovakia, the 21-year-old was also seen yelling "Who else?" When questioned in the post-match interview, he said: "Why the 'Who Else'? The adrenaline gets you. It's a combination of a lot of things.
"Playing for England is an enjoyable feeling, but it's also a lot of pressure. You hear people talk a lot of rubbish. It's nice when you can deliver and give them a little bit back."
England captain Harry Kane found the back of the net less than two minutes into the first period of extra time to keep the Three Lions' Euro 2024 title hopes alive.
Bellingham and the rest of the England players were granted a day off on Tuesday to spend time with their families before resuming training on Wednesday in preparation for Saturday's quarter-final against Switzerland.
Devesh Jaganath
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