Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany has urged the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) to reconsider its rules regarding yellow card suspensions in the Champions League.
The former defender stated that it is «almost impossible for defenders not to get suspended, even if they’ve tried their very best to play fairly,» and suggested that «we should change that.»
Currently, players are suspended for one match after receiving their third yellow card. After the quarterfinals are concluded, these accumulated yellow cards are «wiped clean,» and suspensions do not carry over to the following season.
Nevertheless, Kompany sees a need for action due to the sheer number of matches, particularly in the league phase. He mentioned that it is «very difficult» to navigate the Champions League without incurring a suspension, emphasizing: «Three yellow cards for a center-back – if you get that far and have only received three, you’ve done a good job. Yet, you can still be suspended for the semi-finals, which I find quite harsh.» This is especially true considering that refereeing errors can occur now and then.
Four FC Bayern Players Face Potential Yellow Card Suspension
Ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid (9 PM / DAZN), four Bayern players are at risk of suspension for a potential semi-final match: captain Manuel Neuer, defensive leader Dayot Upamecano, his teammate Jonathan Tah, and Konrad Laimer would miss the first leg of the semi-finals if they receive another yellow card.
For Real Madrid, this applies to five players, including top stars Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham. Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is already suspended after receiving a yellow card in the quarter-final first leg (1-2).