Bayern Munich players were fuming when they were denied the opportunity to take a quick throw-in as Bukayo Saka received treatment for a head injury.
The Gunners star was receiving treatment for am injury caused by a Raphael Guerreiro’s cross, which hit him in the face during a short corner. As Saka was being seen to during the Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash, Arsenal players took the opportunity to receive instructions from Mikel Arteta on the sideline.
The German giants attempted to capitalise with a swift throw-in but were halted by the referee’s whistle, leaving them raging. Referee Danny Makkelie faced the ire of Bayern’s players and coaching staff while Arsenal were left frustrated by their opponent’s attempt to gain an advantage.
Saka was able to continue after the incident. There had been doubts over the England international’s fitness ahead of the game, with both him and Martin Odegaard undergoing late assessments. This isn’t the first time a referee has faced criticism in the quarter-final tie.
Makkelie, who has officiated five Champions League matches this season including Newcastle United’s 2-1 loss to AC Milan at St James’ Park, was not in place for the first meeting of Arsenal and Bayern . For that first leg, Glenn Nyberg was in charge of proceedings.
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The official faced plenty of criticism from Saka at the final whistle, with the North London winger annoyed a decision did not go in his favour. Saka was denied a penalty after falling in the box following a clash with Manuel Neuer in the game’s dying moments.
Ultimately, that looked to be the correct decision. However, Swedish referee Nyberg also refused Bayern a penalty during that match. Gabriel had handled the ball in the box from a goal kick, not realising that play was already underway.
