UEFA has clarified its position on Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, whose controversial decisions against Barcelona in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan on Wednesday evening sparked criticism.
Marciniak has been blamed in Catalonia for the defeat to Inter and was criticized by club president Joan Laporta, coach Hansi Flick, and several players, including Pedri, Ronald Araújo, and Gavi.
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The Spanish newspaper Marca contacted UEFA to ask for its opinion on the match incidents and whether there was any issue with the Polish referee after the game.
The response from UEFA was clear: “No problem,” stating that the federation had no doubts about Marciniak’s performance, despite the dissatisfaction expressed by many voices in Catalonia.
Marca also confirmed that Paris Saint-Germain’s qualification for the Champions League final—where they will face Inter Milan—opens the door for Marciniak to officiate the final in Munich, potentially replacing French referee Clément Turpin, currently regarded as the world’s top referee. Marciniak is also expected to officiate at the Club World Cup in the United States next summer, as he remains a favorite of both UEFA and FIFA.
