Four people have been arrested after a violent incident at Old Trafford involving fans of Spanish side Real Betis and disabled Manchester United supporters.
The incident occurred during a pre-season friendly between the two sides on August 4th, with reports suggesting that Betis fans had thrown coins and sausages at disabled United fans.
The Greater Manchester Police have now confirmed that four people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
In a statement, the police said: “Four people have been arrested following an incident at Old Trafford on Saturday 4 August 2018.
“At around 8.30pm, officers were called to reports of a disturbance involving a group of Real Betis supporters.
“Four people have been arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and remain in custody for questioning.”
The incident has been widely condemned by both clubs, with Manchester United releasing a statement saying: “Manchester United is appalled by the incident at Old Trafford on Saturday evening where a group of Real Betis supporters, including some children, were subjected to unacceptable behaviour.
“The club has been in contact with Greater Manchester Police and Real Betis and will continue to work with them to identify those responsible.
“We are also in contact with the disabled supporters affected and are providing them with our full support.
“Manchester United has a zero-tolerance stance on any form of discrimination and we are committed to ensuring Old Trafford remains a safe and welcoming environment for all.”
Real Betis also released a statement, saying: “Real Betis Balompié wishes to express its most absolute condemnation of the incident that occurred at Old Trafford on Saturday evening, in which a group of Betis supporters, including some children, were subjected to unacceptable behaviour.
“The club is in contact with Manchester United and Greater Manchester Police and will continue to work with them to identify those responsible.
“Real Betis Balompié wishes to express its most sincere apologies to the disabled supporters affected and to Manchester United for the incident.
“Real Betis Balompié has a zero-tolerance stance on any form of discrimination and we are committed to ensuring our supporters behave in a respectful manner at all times.”
The incident has been widely condemned by football fans and authorities alike, with the Football Association releasing a statement saying: “The FA strongly condemns the incident at Old Trafford on Saturday evening and we are working with the relevant authorities to investigate the matter.
“We are appalled by the behaviour of a small number of individuals and we will be working with the clubs and the police to identify those responsible and take appropriate action.
“Discrimination of any kind has no place in football and we will continue to work with the clubs, the leagues and the police to ensure that such incidents are dealt with swiftly and appropriately.”
The incident is a reminder of the need for football clubs and authorities to continue to work together to ensure that all fans, regardless of their disability, are able to enjoy the game in a safe and welcoming environment.
