Series A
Politano admits ‘difference’ between Serie A and UCL referees amid Barça penalty controversy


Matteo Politano feels Napoli deserved a penalty kick in opposition to Barcelona for a foul on Victor Osimhen, however insists the Partenopei should now deal with Serie A and attempt to end within the high 4.
The Italian winger spoke to reporters within the combined zone on Tuesday night time following a 3-1 loss in opposition to Barcelona within the Champions League Spherical of 16 second leg.
“We’re dissatisfied as a result of we thought we may equalise. We even had an opportunity, however then they killed the sport off,” stated Politano, as quoted by TMW.
“We’re sorry as a result of we reacted nicely to a stunning begin. Now, we should look ahead as a result of now we have ten video games remaining, and the goal is to struggle and put in these types of performances.”
The defending Serie A champions appealed for a penalty kick within the second half for a suspected foul on their star striker Osimhen.
“I used to be close by, and truthfully, I noticed the contact, however sadly, they [referees] determined in any other case,” stated the Italian winger.
“There’s a little distinction [between Serie A and Champions League] by way of officiating.”
Even Napoli coach Francesco Calzona protested after the sport saying that VAR ought to have intervened.
Politano stated President Aurelio De Laurentiis didn’t meet the gamers in the course of the half-time break.
“He didn’t come to the dressing room in the course of the break, so we talked with the coach on the finish of the match,” he stated.
“We should analyse our errors and proceed on this pathway as a result of there may be nonetheless time to achieve the goal.
“We knew the significance of this match; we knew Barcelona had been a high facet. Nevertheless, now we have one goal now: to achieve the highest 4 and proceed residing nights like this. Regardless of the defeat, we should proceed being assured.
“We should attempt to return to the Champions League; in any other case, it will likely be an unpleasant season. The followers are superb; they comply with us all over the place. The stadium is all the time offered out, and we hope to offer them 10 superb matches,” Politano concluded.
The 30-year-old has seven objectives and eight assists in 38 appearances throughout all competitions this season. He netted as soon as in eight Champions League matches in 2023-24.