Manchester United are looking into troubling allegations that their supporters were tear-gassed by French police after the team’s 2-2 draw with Lyon in the Europa League on Thursday night.
The incident, which took place following the match at the Groupama Stadium, has left fans furious, as several of them reported being subjected to tear gas while attempting to use the restroom.
Claims of Heavy-Handed Police Response
Reports suggest that the trouble began when supporters were blocked from accessing the toilets, causing frustration among the fans.
Many felt that the police’s response was excessive, especially since the fans were simply trying to fulfill basic needs.
The situation escalated further, leading to claims that tear gas was used to control the crowd.
United are currently investigating the incident to piece together exactly what happened.
Football Supporters Europe Condemns Police Actions
Ronan Evain, the executive director of Football Supporters Europe, condemned the actions of the police, calling them “completely unacceptable.”
He highlighted the fundamental right of individuals to access basic facilities like toilets and stated that the authorities were responsible for escalating the tension unnecessarily.
“It’s human nature for people to get frustrated when their dignity is taken away,” Evain explained.
“The police had the option to de-escalate the situation, but instead chose to escalate it further.”
Video Footage of Tear-Gassing Emerges Online
After the match, a video surfaced on social media that showed Manchester United fans covering their noses and mouths, claiming that they had all been tear-gassed inside the stadium.
The footage, shared widely on platforms like X, quickly gained traction, with thousands of views.
Fans were seen wearing their shirts over their faces, coughing, and expressing their disbelief at the situation.
One supporter was heard shouting, “Everyone has been fing tear-gassed here!” while another could be heard exclaiming, “How the fing hell can they be using tear gas at a football match?”
As the video continued, more fans were seen rubbing their eyes, covering their faces, and even booing the situation. Many seemed visibly distressed by the event.
Frustration Builds Amidst Other Travel Issues
The incident was the latest in a series of difficulties for United fans during their trip to Lyon.
Supporters had already faced complications before the match, as all traveling fans were required to pick up wristbands from a location 10 kilometers away from the stadium.
The local metro system also failed to operate as planned, causing delays and forcing transport officials to scramble to put buses in place to get fans to the stadium on time.
Investigation and Responses from Authorities
Both French police and Manchester United have been contacted for comment regarding the incident.
United are currently investigating the matter, aiming to clarify the situation and understand the full scope of what occurred.
Meanwhile, a non-club-affiliated fan page has reached out to those who attended the game, seeking further feedback on the event to better understand the experiences of those involved.
As this investigation unfolds, many are left questioning how such an incident could occur at a high-profile match, and what steps will be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.