FC Bayern Munich Veteran speaks about potential hand-ball during UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal

In an exciting contest, Bayern Munich had to compromise for a 2-2 draw in their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash. Arsenal had taken the lead through Bukayo Saka during the first half, however Serge Gnabry levelled the score before Kane gave the German powerhouses the lead from the penalty spot after Leroy Sane's foul on William Saliba was called.

In the second half, with Bayern leading 2-1, Arsenal player Gabriel Magalhaes touched the ball after David Raya made a short pass to him.  Although referee Glenn Nyberg blew his whistle, Gabriel mistakenly believed he had to take the goal kick. 

Play was permitted to continue by Nyberg, a decision that infuriated fans on the pitch, in the stands, and throughout Germany. Later, Leandro Trossard equalised the score which made the Bavarians even more furious at the end of the first leg. 

How have the FC Bayern Munich players reacted to the referee’s decision?

Thomas Muller spoke to the reporters after the game and was furious about the call made by the referee. He said, "The referee blows the whistle, the goalkeeper plays the ball and a player takes the ball with his hand. According to the rules, this is handball in the penalty area and a clear penalty. I can understand the referee's arguments that it was a kid's mistake. He doesn't want to decide the game through such a strange situation. But he did he have an influence on the game with this decision - it is always better to follow the rules.”

The Bayern Munich midfielder added, “The referee saw it clearly. The mistake was just too stupid for him to award a penalty. But it's not his decision to make. The referee is there to enforce the rules. Even if you may not be satisfied with the rule. I don't think the rule says: OK, if it wasn't intentional, pick up the ball and put it down again for a goal kick... I don't know what it says. I think it’s a clear penalty.”