FC Barcelona were knocked out of the Champions League on Tuesday night after a dramatic clash with Inter, and in the aftermath of the defeat, several members of the Catalan camp have now sharply criticized the referee, Szymon Marciniak.
The Polish referee, who is one of UEFA’s most prominent officials and notably officiated the 2022 World Cup final, was at the center of attention several times during the quarterfinal, with key decisions going in favor of the Italians.
Should Look Into It
Midfielder Pedri didn’t hold back when asked about the referee’s performance after the match.
Read also: The 25 Most Successful Players in Bundesliga History - Ranked
“It’s not the first time we’ve experienced something like this with this referee,” he told Diario according til Bold.dk: “I think UEFA should look into it.”
Pedri referred to a controversial situation in the first half when Henrikh Mkhitaryan made a hard tackle on Lamine Yamal just outside the penalty area. Marciniak awarded a free kick but failed to issue a yellow card, which would have been Mkhitaryan’s second and would have resulted in a red card.
Later in the game, Marciniak awarded Inter a penalty after a VAR review, further fueling Barcelona’s frustration.
Flick Calls Decisions Unfair
Head coach Hansi Flick also expressed his dissatisfaction with the course of the match.
Read also: Guardiola Chasing New Star Player After De Bruyne's Departure
“I think the result is unfair, and some of the referee’s decisions were very good, but not in our favor,” he said after the match.
Barcelona’s players and coaches were clearly affected by the exit, and many pointed out that the referee’s approach in the crucial moments tilted the balance in Inter’s favor.
The game was played at a high tempo, and Inter ultimately emerged victorious with an aggregate score that sent them through to the semifinals.
Barcelona, on the other hand, must once again watch their Champions League dream shatter, leaving a bitter taste.
Read also: The 15 Most Skillful Players of All Time - Ranked from Lowest to Highest
Source: Bold.dk
