Mirror: Arsenal Considers Complaining To UEFA That Atletico Madrid’s Home Pitch Is Too Long And Does Not Meet Requirements

According to the "Mirror" report, on May 1, Arsenal may consider reporting Atletico Madrid's field tactics at the Metropolitan Stadium to UEFA.

Before the game started, Arsenal staff were caught on television in Madrid measuring the length of the turf. They did not actually make a formal complaint, but they may have obtained relevant evidence and could submit written materials to UEFA if they chose to do so. The maximum length of the turf stipulated by UEFA cannot exceed 30 mm. Although some people think that the turf is actually too short, Arsenal obviously disagrees with this view. Before the game, Arsenal staff were caught negotiating with UEFA officials, complaining that the turf was too long and exceeded the prescribed limit.

Barcelona also claimed in the quarter-finals that the pitch was too long and accused Atletico Madrid of trying to slow down the pace of the game. Tottenham claimed that the stadium was overspilled before the last 16 match and they turned on the sprinklers before kick-off. However, Arsenal defused their "action" by guessing a coin and then changing sides. Atletico Madrid then watered the pitch at half-time, with Arsenal's defensive side receiving significantly more water than the other. UEFA has strict regulations on stadium conditions, stipulating that "home clubs must make all reasonable efforts to ensure that the stadium is in the best condition" and they will undergo strict inspections before games.

UEFA Article 34 stipulates that the home club must abide by the natural turf mowing guidelines. The height of the turf cannot exceed 30 mm. The entire competition venue must be mowed to the same height. The height of the turf during training and during games should be the same. If the referee or UEFA match representative feels it is necessary, then the home club can be asked to lower the height of the turf during games and training.

Well, first of all, the home club must inform the watering schedule at the organizational meeting, which is a must. Then, water the court evenly and never just in certain areas. Normally, watering should be completed 60 minutes before kick-off. However, at the discretion of the home club, watering can also take place after this, between 10 and 5 minutes before kick-off. Also, and/or during intermission, watering can also be carried out for up to 5 minutes.

UEFA continues to collect evidence and is still investigating this matter. However, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will pursue further investigation. At the same time, Simeone's reaction to the referee watching the VAR replay on the sidelines may cause him trouble. It depends on whether the fourth official will inform the referee about this and the referee will put it in the post-match report packet. Markley changed his mind after watching the replay 13 times, and UEFA may then seek feedback from the VAR team.

This is different from the pace when VAR only intervenes when there is a clear and obvious error. Arsenal coach Arteta's complaint after the game may have made his position clear before the start of the second round. Gunners midfielder Rice claimed on TV that the referee may have been influenced by the home audience. Although this may imply bias according to Premier League rules, it would be extremely unusual for UEFA to intervene.