Antonio Banderas, the steely eyed killer in two of Roberto Rodriguez's gonzo Mexican trilogy, and CF Malaga's most famous fan watched with delirious delight his side beat CF Porto and book their place to the quarterfinals. In an interview to a local TV station, he described his joy:
" To be among the eight best teams in Europe this year for us is an incredible triumph for the fans. We have been suffering for many years. It's not only a fantastic thing for the team but for the city as well."
He was less happy about UEFA's decision in December to ban Malaga for four years from all UEFA competitions for non-payment to creditors and ordered the club to prove by March 31st that they had paid off all " overdue payables towards football clubs or towards employees and/or social/tax authorities," in accordance with the financial fair play rules.
" I think the decision is very misguided. It should have been taken at the end of the season giving the club time to settle these debts."
The club is appealing the decision and Banderas was hoping the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) would rule in their favour and remove the sanctions.
"I really hope CAS analyses the situation with a cool head and gives its backing to Malaga."
Otherwise, he just might do this, UEFA. Don't say we didn't warn you.
They were soo close to making to the semifinals. Heck of a run.