UEFA are poised to investigate Declan Rice’s comments following Arsenal’s draw with Atletico Madrid – and could even slap him with a suspension. The England midfielder voiced his frustration after the Gunners’ contentious 1-1 semi-final first-leg draw in Madrid. Referee Danny Makkelie pointed to the spot on three occasions during the match.
Arsenal were awarded a penalty for David Hancko’s foul on Viktor Gyokeres, with Atleti also granted their own for Ben White’s handball. The visitors believed they had secured a second after Eberechi Eze was fouled but the referee reversed his decision after viewing 13 replays. Speaking after the match, Rice claimed that home supporters had persuaded the official to overturn his initial call.
He said: “UEFA (Champions League) is totally different, I think. In both boxes you have to be so careful because they give absolutely everything.
“The second one, Ebs’ one, it’s a clear penalty. I don’t know how that’s not been given. I think the fans provoked the decision and changed the ref’s mind. But it doesn’t matter, we move on to next week and we want to beat them at home.”
Those remarks could potentially come back to haunt him. According to The Times, UEFA will scrutinise the referee’s report before deciding whether Rice’s outburst questioned the referee’s integrity.
It remains to be seen how lengthy that process might prove, though a ban has not been ruled out. Rice was previously suspended for two games during his spell with West Ham after he accused a referee of corruption, though that process took approximately five weeks.
Rice continued to share his views on the contentious decisions that went against Arsenal in the Spanish capital, including White’s alleged handball. He added: “I’ve not seen it back yet. At first glance I thought that maybe if it’s in the Premier League it doesn’t get given because it’s so low to the ground.
“The ball’s not going on target. But then UEFA (matches) are totally different rules…hands away from the body. I think with UEFA they give it but Premier League, I’m not so sure.
“It’s just the way it’s operated, I think. I feel like they penalise you more in European competitions.
“I’ve felt that since I played in the Champions League three years ago. Referees are really quick to make decisions, to blow their whistle. You can’t do much about it. You’ve just got to watch out and be careful.”
The Gunners face Fulham in the Premier League this weekend before the second leg against Atletico at the Emirates Stadium.
