LISBON - The European League Last 32 tie between Arsenal and Benficas will likely take place on a neutral ground. This is due to strict regulations regarding lockdown amid the Covid-19 pandemic

Benfica was selected to host the first leg on 19 February. However, the UK government has its own rules for anyone traveling from abroad.

In The Irish Examiner's report, Tuesday (2/2), Arsenal players, coaches and staff are required to self-quarantine for 10 days after arriving in London from Lisbon, Portugal. This is predicted to interfere with the Gunners' match schedule in local competitions.

For this reason, UEFA as the umbrella organization for European football competitions is trying to find a neutral place so that the two teams can continue to compete and not be hampered by the regulations of their respective countries.

"UEFA has the right to seek alternative places in one and both legs in a neutral country that is in the territory of UEFA," said UEFA regulation part K number 1 paragraph 8, quoted by The Irish Examiner.

Arsenal reportedly agreed with this plan. Because, not only those who experience a similar situation. Liverpool, which will face RB Leipzig, are also experiencing the same problem.

Flights from the UK to Germany are being blocked until 17 February. Even though a few days before that date, the Reds had to fly to Leipzig.