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London coach Arsene Wenger insists that even UEFA representatives were shocked by Massimo Busacca's decision to remove striker Robin van Persie from the field.
Yesterday, in the Champions League return match at the "Camp Nou" stadium, the team from the capital of England avenged their defeat three weeks ago away 1-2 with a score of 3-1 and advanced to the prestigious tournament's quarterfinals.
There was much debate surrounding the removal of van Persie from the field in the 56th minute - the Dutchman received a second yellow card for a shot towards the goal after the referee's whistle. The forward called Busacca's decision a "joke" and justified himself by saying he did not hear a signal to stop play amidst 95 thousand jumping fans in the stadium.
Meanwhile, for Arsenal's manager Wenger, Van Persie's removal seemed "shameful" and even UEFA representatives were not impressed by the referee's decision.
"I spoke with people from UEFA. They are also shocked because the referee killed a fantastic football spectacle," said the Frenchman.
He continued: "And for what? If it was a serious foul or a major offense worthy of a second yellow card, it would be understandable, but in this case it is simply shameful."
The specialist went on: "There are two types of people who may be dissatisfied with the referee's actions - those who love the Arsenal club and those who love football.
We lost to the excellent Barcelona team, I congratulate them and wish them success in the future.
This evening we are disappointed, as we did not expect to lose in this manner. I apologize to the people who watched these matches."
