7M - Rice Faces UEFA Probe Over Referee Remarks

Following a 1-1 draw in the Champions League semi-final first leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Atletico Madrid may gain an advantage ahead of the decisive second leg at the Emirates Stadium. While Julian Alvarez, Giuliano Simeone and Alexander Sorloth are all expected to be available for Diego Simeone's side, Arsenal could face the absence of midfielder Declan Rice due to potential disciplinary action from UEFA.

According to reports from The Times via Diario AS, Rice's post-match remarks criticizing referee Danny Makkelie have prompted a UEFA review. After a second-half penalty decision was overturned - a call that would have allowed Arsenal to lead 2-1 - Rice publicly suggested that home supporters influenced the official's change of mind. He specifically referenced an incident involving Eberechi Eze, stating the penalty was clear and that fan pressure affected the outcome.

UEFA will now assess the referee's match report to determine whether Rice's statements undermine the integrity of match officials. If a breach is confirmed, the England international could face sanctions, including a suspension that would rule him out of next week's crucial return fixture in North London.

Rice remains a pivotal figure in Mikel Arteta's squad, and his potential absence would be a significant blow to Arsenal's hopes of reaching the Champions League final. However, any formal decision from UEFA is not expected for several days, leaving the situation unresolved as both teams prepare for the decisive encounter.