Controversy Erupts Over Santiago Ese’s Unjust Red Card in Barcelona Clash
The Champions League group stage match between Barcelona and Olympiacos was overshadowed by a highly contentious decision when referee Urs Schneider issued an unwarranted red card to Santiago Ese. This ruling abruptly shifted the momentum of the game, making Schneider the focal point of widespread criticism during the third matchday of the League Phase.
How the Referee’s Call Influenced the Match Outcome
Shortly after Ese’s dismissal, a harsh penalty was awarded following what appeared to be a theatrical fall by Marcus Rashford inside the penalty area. This sequence of events paved the way for Barcelona to dominate the encounter, ultimately securing a commanding 6-1 victory over Olympiacos.
Player’s Reaction to the Controversial Decision
Understandably frustrated by the blatant injustice, Argentine midfielder Santiago Ese refused to leave the pitch immediately. Instead, he remained seated at the tunnel entrance, calmly smiling in a gesture of silent protest directed at the referee’s questionable judgment.
📸 – Hezze is refusing to go to the dressing room, he just sits at the front of the tunnel laughing at the referee. pic.twitter.com/KXWiFzcU9L
– The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) October 21, 2025
Support and Birthday Wishes Amidst the Controversy
The incident occurred just one day before Ese’s 24th birthday, adding a bittersweet note to the event. Olympiacos FC publicly extended their birthday greetings to the midfielder, while fans flooded social media with messages of solidarity, condemning the unfair treatment he endured in Barcelona.
🎂 Happy Birthday Santiago! / Χρόνια πολλά @SantiHezze! #HappyBirthday #Hezze #Olympiacos #Wishes pic.twitter.com/dAwgAEw154
– Olympiacos FC (@olympiacosfc) October 22, 2025
Additional Context: Transfer Market Developments
Meanwhile, in transfer news, a surprising contender has emerged in the race for Jimmy Butler, potentially altering the dynamics for Olympiacos and other interested clubs. This development could signal a shift in the team’s strategic planning moving forward.
