The draw for the Champions League last-16 has been made.
The standout fixture is Paris Saint-Germain vs Manchester United – a tie that will put Lionel Messi with Cristiano Ronaldo.
It will also see Mauricio Pochettino face a side he’s could well be managing next season.
However, the draw wasn’t without controversy.
As you may know, a group winner had to play a group runner-up. However, teams in the same group or from the same country couldn’t be drawn against each other.
So when Villarreal were drawn as the club runner-up, they couldn’t be drawn against Man United.
Round of 16 draw✔️
What are you most excited for?#UCLdraw | #UCL pic.twitter.com/FfrEuIFSxX
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) December 13, 2021
So when Andrey Arshavin pulled out United, there was confusion.
The host explained how United couldn’t be drawn so another ball was picked – the ball happened to be Manchester City.
If that wasn’t controversial enough, it’s now being suggested by many that Man United weren’t put in the pot to be pulled out against Atletico Madrid in the very next tie – even though they were able to play them.
It definitely looks like #mufc’s ball – in the second pot from the right, back row – was not included in the Atletico Madrid draw. pic.twitter.com/ubxQHdjkQV
— Mark Critchley (@mjcritchley) December 13, 2021
Many fans reacted strongly on social media, calling for the draw to be done again. Meanwhile, we’re yet to hear from UEFA.
The most controversial moment in sport since… yesterday’s Formula 1 drama.
Instead, United were the last tie to be drawn out as they faced PSG.
