A man has been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated abuse during a Premier League match between Everton and Manchester City, as authorities investigate an incident involving forward Antoine Semenyo.
Merseyside Police said the arrest was made during Monday’s 3-3 draw at Hill Dickinson Stadium after reports that a supporter had shouted racist remarks. The suspect, a 71-year-old man from Nottinghamshire, was detained at the ground following complaints from both fans and stewards.
In a statement, police confirmed the individual was arrested “on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence” after “supporters and stewards reported that racist abuse was shouted by a fan”.
Authorities added that their investigation is continuing, with officers working alongside Everton Football Club. The man has since been released on bail with strict conditions, including a temporary ban preventing him from approaching within one mile of any designated sports stadium during matchday periods.
The incident has prompted strong condemnation from Everton, who reiterated their zero-tolerance stance on discrimination. In a statement, the club said “behaviour of this nature will not be tolerated”.
“Racism and discrimination in all forms are completely unacceptable. They have no place in our stadia, our sport or in society,” the club said.
“The club will continue to work closely with the authorities to support their investigation and will take the strongest possible action in line with its zero-tolerance approach.”
The alleged abuse marks the second time this season that Semenyo, 26, has been subjected to racist behaviour. Earlier in the campaign, while playing for AFC Bournemouth, he reported being targeted during a match against Liverpool FC, which ended in a 4-2 defeat.
Following that earlier incident, Semenyo called for tougher measures to combat racism in football, suggesting that custodial sentences could be considered for those found guilty of such offences.
Manchester City also responded to Monday’s events, expressing support for Semenyo and highlighting a separate case involving one of their own players. The club said defender Marc Guehi had been subjected to racist abuse on social media after the match.
In a statement, City praised the rapid response of both Everton and the police, while condemning the abuse directed at players.
“We are incredibly disappointed to hear that Marc Guehi was subject to a series of vile racist social media posts last night,” the club said.
“We will continue to offer our full support to both Antoine and Marc and never accept discrimination of any kind in our game.”
The latest incident adds to ongoing concerns about racism in football, with clubs, governing bodies and campaigners continuing to call for stronger enforcement and cultural change across the sport.
