Barry Ferguson Faces UEFA Charges Over Post-Match Comments Following Rangers’ Europa League Defeat to Athletic Bilbao
Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson finds himself in hot water with UEFA after making controversial remarks in the wake of his team’s 2-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League quarter-final second leg on April 17, 2025. The loss at San Mames Stadium ended Rangers’ European campaign, and Ferguson’s outspoken comments about the officiating during the match have prompted UEFA to charge the former club captain, potentially leading to serious disciplinary consequences.
The Match and the Controversy
Rangers entered the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie against Athletic Bilbao with high hopes after securing a gritty 0-0 draw in the first leg at Ibrox, despite playing with 10 men for most of the match following Robin Propper’s early red card. However, in Bilbao, Rangers were undone by a penalty from Oihan Sancet just before halftime and a late header from Nico Williams, resulting in a 2-0 aggregate defeat.
Post-match, Ferguson expressed frustration with referee Irfan Peljto’s decisions, claiming Rangers were denied two “clear” penalties that could have altered the game’s outcome. He highlighted an incident where striker Cyriel Dessers had his shirt pulled by Athletic’s Yeray Alvarez in the penalty box and another where a potential handball was overlooked before Nicolas Raskin’s shot hit the post. Speaking to RangersTV and reported by outlets like STV News and the Daily Express, Ferguson stated, “We should have had two penalties. The first one changes the dynamic of the game.” His comments, perceived as a direct criticism of the officiating, have landed him in trouble with UEFA’s disciplinary body.
UEFA’s Response and Charges
UEFA has charged Ferguson with breaching its disciplinary regulations, specifically under Article 15, which pertains to improper conduct by players, coaches, or officials, including statements that bring the game or its officials into disrepute. The governing body has taken a firm stance against comments that undermine the integrity of match officials, as seen in past cases, such as Jose Mourinho’s four-match ban in 2023 for his criticism of referee Anthony Taylor after the Europa League final.
While the exact wording of UEFA’s charge against Ferguson has not been publicly detailed, sources indicate that his remarks about the penalty decisions were deemed inflammatory. UEFA’s disciplinary committee is expected to review the case in the coming weeks, and Ferguson could face a range of punishments, including a touchline ban, a fine, or both. A suspension would prevent him from managing Rangers from the dugout in future European matches, should he remain in charge, while a hefty fine could add financial strain to the club amid its ongoing takeover talks.
Ferguson, a Rangers legend who captained the club to the 2008 UEFA Cup final, has been in interim charge since Philippe Clement’s sacking in early March 2025. His tenure has been a rollercoaster, marked by a commendable European run, including a penalty shootout victory over Fenerbahce, but marred by domestic struggles, with Rangers enduring a historic five-game home losing streak.
Following the Bilbao defeat, Ferguson called for clarity on his managerial future, emphasizing the need for Rangers to rebuild and challenge for domestic trophies. “I’ve not sat down and spoken about [my future], but it needs to get sorted soon because as a club we need to do a lot of work,” he told BBC Sport. “I just want my club to get back to where it should be, whether it’s me or someone else.” His comments reflect a deep commitment to the club, but the UEFA charge could complicate his bid to secure the permanent role, especially as Rangers navigate a trophyless season and impending ownership changes.
The severity of Ferguson’s punishment will depend on UEFA’s interpretation of his intent and the precedent set by similar cases. In 2018, Doncaster Rovers manager Darren Ferguson (no relation) was charged by the English FA for suggesting it would be a “good idea” to “shoot” referees, a comment he later clarified as tongue-in-cheek. He faced a fine and a warning but no ban, as he apologized promptly. Similarly, Sir Alex Ferguson was charged by the FA in 2003 for abusive language toward officials, facing a potential touchline ban or fine.
Barry Ferguson has not yet issued a public apology for his remarks, which could influence UEFA’s decision. If deemed to have directly questioned the referee’s integrity, he risks a multi-match ban, similar to Mourinho’s punishment. However, if UEFA views his comments as an expression of frustration rather than malice, a fine and a warning may suffice. The outcome will also hinge on whether Ferguson requests a personal hearing to present his case.
Ferguson’s comments have sparked mixed reactions. Rangers supporters, frustrated by the team’s elimination and the perceived officiating errors, have largely backed their interim boss, with many echoing his claims about the denied penalties. Social media posts on X reflect fan sentiment, with one user stating, “Ferguson’s right—those were stonewall penalties. UEFA won’t like him speaking truth.” However, others caution that his outburst could harm Rangers’ reputation, with a fan noting, “Barry needs to be careful. Slagging off refs never ends well with UEFA.”
Media outlets have also weighed in, with the Daily Record praising Ferguson’s tactical approach against Bilbao but warning that his post-match remarks could overshadow his achievements. “The Scottish wall—devised by Barry—fell, but his complaints about refereeing might cost him more than the defeat,” the outlet noted.
As UEFA’s disciplinary process unfolds, Ferguson remains focused on finishing the season strongly, with five Scottish Premiership games left. However, with Celtic already crowned champions and Rangers out of all cup competitions, the focus is on rebuilding for the 2025-26 season.
Ferguson’s immediate priority will be to avoid further controversy while preparing for UEFA’s ruling. A touchline ban would not affect domestic matches but could impact his standing with the Rangers board and new ownership, who are evaluating candidates for the permanent managerial role. Captain James Tavernier has publicly endorsed Ferguson, but the UEFA charge adds uncertainty to his future.
For Rangers, the episode underscores broader challenges. The club must address its domestic inconsistencies, bolster its squad, and navigate the ongoing takeover. Ferguson’s passion for Rangers is unquestionable, but his latest brush with UEFA could test his resilience as he fights to restore the club to its former glory.
Barry Ferguson’s post-match comments after Rangers’ Europa League exit to Athletic Bilbao have thrust him into a disciplinary battle with UEFA. While his frustration over refereeing decisions resonated with fans, it has triggered charges that could result in a ban or fine, potentially jeopardizing his managerial aspirations. As Rangers face a pivotal offseason, Ferguson’s fate—both with UEFA and the club—remains uncertain. What is clear is that his love for Rangers drives his actions, but in the high-stakes world of European football, passion must be tempered with caution to avoid costly repercussions.
