Pjanic Turns His Back on UEFA, Demands Russia's Return to European Football

Bosnian Midfielder Joins Growing Chorus of Dissent Against UEFA's Ban

Former Juventus and Barcelona midfielder Miralem Pjanic has become the latest high-profile figure to criticize UEFA's decision to ban Russian teams from European competitions following the invasion of Ukraine.

Pjanic's Call for Reinstatement

In an interview with Bosnian media outlet Klix, Pjanic expressed his strong opposition to UEFA's stance.

"I think it's wrong to punish the Russian people like this," Pjanic said. "They are not responsible for what their government is doing."

Pjanic argued that the ban is unfair to Russian athletes who have no control over the political situation.

Growing Support for Russia's Return

Pjanic's comments echo the growing sentiment among football fans and pundits who believe that UEFA's ban is too harsh.

Several other notable figures in the football world have also spoken out against the ban, including former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and Russian Football Union President Alexander Dyukov.

UEFA's Defense of Ban

UEFA has maintained that the ban is necessary to protect the integrity of European football and to send a clear message of condemnation to the Russian government.

However, critics argue that the ban is ineffective and only serves to punish ordinary Russians who have no involvement in the conflict.

Long-Term Impact of Ban

The long-term impact of UEFA's ban remains to be seen.

Some experts believe that it could lead to the isolation of Russian football and make it more difficult for Russian teams to compete at the international level.

Others argue that the ban will ultimately be reversed and that Russia will eventually be allowed to return to European football.