Arsenal midfielder questioned officials after Gunners’ controversial Champions League draw with Atletico Madrid but could face serious consequences
Rice’s comments will be investigated by UEFA (Image: Getty Images)
UEFA will investigate Declan Rice’s comments after Arsenal’s draw with Atletico Madrid, with the possibility of him being suspended. The England midfielder spoke out after the Gunners’ controversial 1-1 stalemate in Madrid.
Referee Danny McCarey pointed to the spot three times during the match. Arsenal earned a penalty for David Hanko’s foul on Victor Gokeres, while Atleti also earned a penalty for Ben White’s handball.
The visiting team thought they had won after Eberechi Eze was fouled, but the referee changed his decision after watching 13 replays. Speaking after the game, Rice claimed that the home fans had persuaded the referee to retract his original statement.
He said: “I think UEFA (Champions League) is completely different. We have to be very careful because in both boxes we give absolutely everything.”
read more: Arsenal suffer three injuries during Premier League match against Fulhamread more: Arsenal consider filing formal complaint with UEFA over Atletico Madrid allegations
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“The second one, that one by Ebbs, was a clear penalty. I don’t know why it wasn’t given. I think the fans provoked the decision and changed the referee’s mind. But it doesn’t matter. We go on to next week and want to beat them at home.”
Those comments could come back and hurt him. The Times said UEFA will consider the referee’s report before deciding whether Rice’s abuse raised questions about the referee’s integrity.
It remains to be seen how long this process will take, but a ban has not been ruled out. Rice was suspended for two games after accusing referees of corruption during his time at West Ham, but the process took about five weeks.
Rice went on to share his thoughts on the controversial decision to play against Arsenal in the Spanish capital, including Whyte’s handball allegations. He added: “I haven’t looked at it yet. At first glance, I thought that if it was in the Premier League, they wouldn’t give it to me because it’s in such a low position.”
Rice furious over decisions against Atlético Madrid (Image: Getty Images)
“The ball didn’t hit the target. But in UEFA, the rules are completely different. You keep your hands off your body. I think it’s allowed in UEFA, but I don’t think so in the Premier League.”
“I think it’s just the way it’s run. I feel like there are more penalties in European competitions.
“I felt that way since I played in the Champions League three years ago. The referee makes decisions really quickly and blows the whistle. There’s nothing you can do about it. You just have to be careful and be careful.”
The Gunners face Fulham in the Premier League this weekend, ahead of the second leg against Atletico at the Emirates Stadium.
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