England midfielder Jude Bellingham could miss Saturday's bronze medal match against France after reports emerged that FIFA is reviewing his conduct following England's 2-1 semifinal defeat to Argentina at the ongoing North America World Cup in Atlanta.
The incident is said to have happened moments after the final whistle, with BBC reporting on Thursday that Bellingham allegedly slapped Argentina substitute Valentin Barco during post-match celebrations. Barco did not feature in the match but had joined his teammates on the pitch after the final whistle to celebrate their victory.
According to the report, Barco was hugging his teammates near Bellingham when the England midfielder walked over and slapped him. The incident has since attracted widespread attention, with questions raised over whether FIFA will take disciplinary action against the Real Madrid star.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, who was on commentary duty for BBC Radio 5 Live during the match, criticised Barco's conduct after the final whistle, describing his actions as "probably the worst example of sportsmanship we've seen at this World Cup".
Robinson, however, did not comment on Bellingham's reaction, while the English media has largely remained silent on the midfielder's alleged actions. Many England fans have instead directed criticism at Barco on social media, accusing the Argentina substitute of provoking the situation despite the fact that he was celebrating with his teammates.
The reason behind Bellingham's reaction remains unclear. Video footage from the match showed Barco sprinting onto the pitch after Enzo Fernandez scored Argentina's 85th-minute equaliser before celebrating in front of the England players.
Despite the controversy, FIFA may view the incident as unsporting conduct rather than violent behaviour. The Laws of the Game state that a player does not automatically commit a red-card offence if they deliberately strike an opponent on the head but use only negligible force.
Even so, Bellingham could still face disciplinary proceedings from FIFA's disciplinary committee over alleged violent conduct.
If found guilty, the 23-year-old would be suspended for England's bronze medal match against France, scheduled for Saturday in Miami.