Manuel Pellegrini to face UEFA action after criticising referee?

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini could reportedly face action from UEFA for criticising Swedish referee Jonas Eriksson following his side's defeat to Barcelona in the first-leg round-of-16 tie in the Champions League.

Lionel Messi netted from the spot after he was brought down by Martin Demichelis, who was given a straight red card, and the visitors to the Etihad Stadium then doubled their lead with a late strike from Dani Alves.

After the game, Pellegrini accused the match official of lacking 'impartiality' during the encounter, as well as questioning why UEFA put a Swedish referee in charge.

According to Sky Sports News, the Chilean coach could face disciplinary action from the European governing body for his comments.

City will travel to Camp Nou in a bid to overturn their deficit in the second leg on March 12.