Arsenal could face significant UEFA penalties due to a “highly serious” issue involving PSG, according to exclusive reports.

Arsenal are at risk of facing significant UEFA sanctions ahead of their Champions League semi-final against PSG, according to Keith Hackett. The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively revealed to Football Insider that UEFA will engage with Arsenal regarding the ticket allocation for their home leg of the tie against PSG. Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace on April 23 means that Liverpool now only need a single point from their remaining five matches to secure the Premier League title, leaving Arsenal with the Champions League as their last opportunity for silverware this season.

After an impressive quarter-final victory over defending champions Real Madrid, Arsenal will face PSG in the semi-finals. However, controversy has already arisen over ticket allocations for the first leg, scheduled for April 29 at the Emirates Stadium. Reports from L’Équipe suggest PSG is dissatisfied with being given only 2,500 away tickets, which represents about 4% of the stadium’s capacity. UEFA guidelines, however, stipulate that away teams should receive 5% of a stadium’s seating. PSG is believed to have contacted UEFA in an attempt to secure additional tickets, a situation Hackett believes could lead to complications for Arsenal, possibly resulting in penalties.

Hackett stated, “UEFA is committed to ensuring their regulations are followed, and they will likely have discussions with Arsenal behind the scenes. Arsenal may have valid reasons, such as security concerns, for the reduced allocation. UEFA often requires certain areas near the pitch to be closed off, which can further reduce capacity.” He added, “It’s quite late in the process for this dispute to arise, and UEFA will take the matter seriously. Arsenal could face a significant fine if they fail to adhere to the regulations.”

The return leg in Paris, scheduled for May 7 at the Parc des Princes, could see a similar issue arise concerning the ticket allocation for Arsenal’s fans.