Almeida: Atleti Played Against UEFA, Not Arsenal

Martínez-Almeida criticized the appointment of German referee Daniel Seibert for the match, citing a conflict of interest due to Spain and Germany competing for the fifth Champions League spot. "It is incomprehensible that they appointed a German referee," he stated. newsindata.com

The mayor also highlighted controversial decisions, particularly the penalty not awarded to Giuliano Simeone and the amount of stoppage time added. "It is clear proof that the referee wanted that match to end as soon as possible and for Arsenal to go to Budapest rather than Atlético de Madrid," Almeida concluded.