Everton Fan Arrested Over Alleged Racist Abuse Towards Semenyo

Merseyside Police have arrested an Everton supporter for alleged racist abuse directed at Antoine Semenyo during his side’s 3-3 draw with Manchester City at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday.

The 71-year-old man from Nottinghamshire was apprehended on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after reports from fellow supporters and stewards.

A police statement confirmed: “An investigation into the incident during the match remains ongoing, and we continue to work closely with Everton FC.” The individual has been bailed with conditions, including a restriction on approaching designated sports stadiums for a period surrounding matches.

Everton issued a strong statement, declaring that “behaviour of this nature will not be tolerated.” The club added: “Racism and discrimination in all forms are completely unacceptable. They have no place in our stadia, our sport or in society.” Everton pledged to work with authorities and take “the strongest possible action” in line with its zero-tolerance policy.

This marks the second time Ghana international Semenyo, 26, has been targeted with racist abuse this season. He previously reported racial abuse from a spectator while playing for his former club Bournemouth during their 4-2 defeat at Liverpool in the opening Premier League match. Semenyo has since advocated for stronger measures against racism in football, including potential prison sentences for offenders.

Manchester City commended the “swift action” taken by Everton and Merseyside Police. The club also revealed that England defender Marc Guehi, 25, was subjected to online racist abuse after the match. A City statement read: “We are incredibly disappointed to hear that Marc Guehi was subject to a series of vile racist social media posts last night.” They reiterated their commitment to supporting both players and opposing discrimination in football.