The Spanish side suffered a heartbreaking end to their second-leg clash in Italy, as Raphinha’s late strike was canceled out in stoppage time by Francesco Acerbi, leaving the score at 3-3 on the night and 6-6 on aggregate. ..Continue Reading
Davide Frattesi then netted the decisive goal in extra time to settle an unforgettable contest, prompting frustration from Barcelona’s Pedri.
Speaking to the media after the match, the 22-year-old midfielder did not hold back in his criticism of referee Szymon Marciniak.
“It’s not the first time this has happened with this referee and I believe UEFA should have a look at it,” said semi-final loser Pedri.
“I think there are things I don’t understand and they are very hard to explain.
“There’s one incident with Lamine [Yamal] where I think [Henrikh] Mkhitaryan already had a yellow card. It was either a penalty or a foul. Either way it’s a clear yellow card and he should’ve been sent off.
“Honestly, I don’t understand it.”
Barcelona, who conceded at a troubling rate throughout their two-legged clash with Inter, had several grievances over key decisions in the tie. However, Pedri’s remarks do little to help in an era where referees are increasingly scapegoated.
There is a crucial distinction between criticizing a call and making vague, pointed claims about a referee’s integrity.
Suggesting bias without presenting concrete evidence is a weak reaction to defeat and fuels the worst conspiracy-driven narratives within football discussions online.
If UEFA were to launch an inquiry, Pedri’s implied accusation should be examined, and Marciniak’s camp may also take an interest in the matter.
The Spanish midfielder is an exceptional talent, having featured in 13 of Barcelona’s 14 Champions League matches this season, showcasing his importance to the squad.
Barcelona’s frustration is understandable—their dream of returning to the final after a decade was snatched away in dramatic fashion.
However, rather than tarnishing Marciniak’s reputation for convenience, the club would do better to reflect on an otherwise impressive campaign and a gripping contest that was ultimately decided by the slimmest of margins.
