UEFA is set to investigate Declan Rice's comments following Arsenal's controversial 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid, with the England midfielder potentially facing a ban. Rice spoke out after the Champions League clash in Madrid, where referee Danny Makkelie awarded three penalties during the match.
Controversial Decisions in Madrid
Arsenal were awarded a penalty for David Hancko's foul on Viktor Gyokeres, while Atletico received one for Ben White's handball. The visitors believed they should have had a second spot-kick when Eberechi Eze was fouled, but the referee reversed his original decision after reviewing 13 replays.
Speaking after the game, Rice claimed that the home supporters influenced the official's change of heart. He stated: "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."
UEFA Investigation and Potential Ban
According to The Times, UEFA will examine the referee's report to determine whether Rice's comments questioned the official's integrity. The process could take several weeks, and a ban has not been ruled out. This is not Rice's first such incident; during his time at West Ham, he was banned for two games after accusing a referee of being corrupt, a process that took around five weeks.
Rice also discussed White's handball, saying: "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."
He added: "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."
Arsenal now face Fulham in the Premier League this weekend before the second leg against Atletico at the Emirates Stadium.
