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Champions League Podcast: Champions League: Deniz Aytekin, referee of the comeback, retires at 47

Champions League: Deniz Aytekin, referee of the comeback, retires at 47

Champions League 0:58
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Deniz Aytekin, the German referee who became famous for his role in FC Barcelona's comeback against PSG, is ending his career at 47. Stay with us to discover the impact of his controversial decisions and how they have marked the history of the Champions League.

Aytekin officiated his last match this Saturday, a draw between Frankfurt and Stuttgart (2-2). His notoriety is mainly linked to that clash on March 8, 2017, when FC Barcelona overturned a 4-0 defeat to win 6-1, a feat that still traumatizes Parisian supporters. This match remains emblematic of the adrenaline and dramatic twists characteristic of the Champions League, but it was also the stage for refereeing errors that drew sharp criticism, particularly in France.

Although UEFA did not suspend Aytekin after that match, he was kept away from major European competitions for several years. After retiring from international duty in 2022, he focused on domestic competitions, where he has been named referee of the year three times. Aytekin leaves the pitch, leaving an indelible mark on the history of football.

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