- Declan Rice risks UEFA sanction over referee criticism
- Comments followed Arsenal’s draw with Atletico Madrid
- UEFA to review remarks after referee report
- Ban could affect Champions League second leg
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice could face disciplinary action from UEFA after criticising the referee following his side’s controversial draw against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
Declan Rice is under scrutiny after his post-match comments about referee Danny Makkelie during Arsenal FC’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid.
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The midfielder openly questioned a key decision in the match, claiming the atmosphere inside the stadium may have influenced the officials to reverse a late penalty initially awarded to Eberechi Eze.
“I think the fans provoked the decision and changed the ref’s mind. The second one on Ebs is a clear penalty. I don’t understand how it wasn’t given.”
European football’s governing body, UEFA, is expected to review the situation once the referee submits his official report. The key issue will be whether Rice’s comments are seen as questioning the integrity of the match officials.
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For now, Rice remains available for the second leg at the Emirates Stadium. However, a swift disciplinary decision could rule him out of the decisive clash — and possibly the final if Arsenal progress.
This isn’t unfamiliar territory for the midfielder. Back in 2022, while playing for West Ham United, he received a two-match suspension after criticising officials following a Europa League semi-final.
The latest development adds tension to an already heated tie, with Arsenal manager Mikel Artetaalso expressing frustration over the VAR decision in Madrid.
As preparations shift to the return leg, Arsenal will be hoping their midfield anchor avoids punishment and remains available for what promises to be a defining night in their European campaign.
