In a surprising turn of events, one of UEFA's selected referees for Euro 2024 has left the tournament ahead of schedule. Spanish referee Gil Manzano returned home after only refereeing one match between France and Austria.
While UEFA has yet to provide an official statement, reports indicate Manzano was dismissed from his duties. According to sources, his performance in the group stage opener drew scrutiny. During the contest, Manzano booked French star Kylian Mbappe for prematurely reentering the pitch without permission.
Further claims suggest Manzano's departure was prompted by a need for Spanish representation on UEFA's refereeing commission. However, others allege poor form led to his dismissal. Manzano had previously sent off England youngster Jude Bellingham in controversial fashion last season in La Liga play.
His decision to rule out Bellingham's goal and subsequent red card drew fierce criticism. As a result, Manzano was handed a two-match ban from refereeing domestic league matches in Spain.
With Manzano no longer overseeing games, Poland's Szymon Marciniak and Premier League referee Michael Oliver will take the spotlight. Both are slated to officiate round of 16 contests this weekend. UEFA is yet to comment on the specifics surrounding Manzano's abrupt exit from Euro 2024 duties. Fans await a statement on what led one of football's elite referees to depart the tournament early and unexpectedly.
