May 7 – Arsenal say they “utterly condemn” the behaviour of a group of Valencia fans who appeared to make Nazi salutes and monkey gestures during last Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first leg, the latest incident of racism plaguing European football.
Arsenal won the game 3-1 and need to get through this week’s return to have any chance of qualifying for next season’s Champions League having all but failed to make it via the Premier League at the weekend.
“We utterly condemn such behaviour,” said an Arsenal spokesman. “It has no place in society or football. We are working with Valencia on this and continue to encourage fans to report incidents and to provide witness statements so effective action can be taken.”
Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out said “these blatant racist gestures are shocking and inexcusable”.
Six Valencia fans were arrested during the game for foul and abusive language and alcohol-related issues.
Valencia’s president Anil Murthy said the club would “get rid” of any fans found responsible. “There is no place in football for racism or violence,” he tweeted.
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