Arsenal star Declan Rice facing UEFA ban ahead of Atletico Madrid second-leg

Declan Rice could face a ban after criticising referee Danny Makkelie following Arsenal’s controversial 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.

Rice suggested that the hostile Atletico fans “provoked” the officials and influenced the decision to overturn a late penalty awarded to Eberechi Eze.

“I think the fans provoked the decision and changed the ref’s mind,” Rice said.

“The second one on Ebs is a clear penalty. I don’t understand how it wasn’t given.”

According to The Times, UEFA are expected to review Rice’s comments once referee Makkelie submits his official match report.

The governing body will assess whether the remarks question the integrity of the match officials.

While Rice is currently expected to be available for the return leg at the Emirates Stadium next Tuesday, any swift punishment could rule him out of the crucial tie, and potentially the final if Arsenal progress.

This is not the first time Rice has found himself in hot water with European authorities. He received a two-match ban in 2022 while at West Ham for criticising officials after a Europa League semi-final.

The incident has added further tension to an already fiery semi-final, with Mikel Arteta also furious at the VAR decision in Madrid.

Arsenal will now hope Rice escapes sanction as they prepare to host Diego Simeone’s side with the tie delicately poised.