A supporter has been arrested following allegations of racist abuse directed at Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo during Manchester City’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
According to Merseyside Police, a 71-year-old man from Nottinghamshire was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after the alleged incident was reported by fans and stadium stewards during the match.
The suspect has since been released on bail under strict conditions, including a restriction that prevents him from going within one mile of any sports stadium before, during, and after football matches for a specified period while investigations continue.
Manchester City condemn abuse
In a statement released after the game, Manchester City strongly condemned the alleged racist abuse aimed at Semenyo, describing the incident as unacceptable and reaffirming the club’s commitment to fighting discrimination in football.
The club also expressed concern over separate racist abuse reportedly directed at defender Marc Guéhi on social media following the match.
“There is no place for racism in football or in society. We strongly condemn all forms of discriminatory behaviour and will continue to support efforts to identify and punish those responsible,” the club said.
Everton reaffirm zero-tolerance stance
Everton also addressed the incident, backing swift action taken by authorities and stressing that racism will not be tolerated at the club or within the wider game.
The Merseyside club confirmed it is cooperating fully with police as investigations continue.
“Racism has no place in football, in sport, or in society. Everton maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination of any kind,” the club stated.
Renewed spotlight on football’s fight against racism
The alleged abuse of Semenyo once again brings football’s long-running battle against racism into sharp focus.
While governing bodies, clubs, and law enforcement have increased efforts to clamp down on discriminatory behaviour, incidents like this continue to underline the work still needed to eradicate racism from the game.
Swift intervention by supporters, stewards, and police in this case has been widely welcomed, with many praising the quick response in addressing the allegation.
For Semenyo, one of Ghana’s brightest football stars, the hope will be that the focus quickly returns to his performances on the pitch — where he continues to make a growing impact at the highest level.
