September 11 – Not for the first time, English champions Chelsea are under the spotlight for anti-semitic chanting that continues to undermine the reputation of their fans.
Although the club have condemned the singing of an anti-Semitic chant during Saturday’s win at Leicester, the English champions could face disciplinary action.
Supporters used a song dedicated to top-draw new signing Alvaro Morata to abuse London rivals Tottenham, who have a large Jewish fanbase.
“Alvaro, Alvaro. He comes from Madrid, he hates the f****** Y***,” the chant went.
“The club and the players appreciate the fans’ passionate support away from home, of course,” Chelsea head of communications Steve Atkins was quoted as saying. “But the language in that song is not acceptable at all.”
He added: “We’ve spoken to Alvaro after the game and he does not want to be connected to that song in any way and both the player and the club request that the supporters stop singing that song with immediate effect.”
Kick It Out, English football’s anti-discrimination organisation, have also condemned the song and called for those responsible to be banned. “There is no place for such disgusting chants at football matches and in wider society,” read a statement.
“The organisation expects Chelsea FC to ban any supporters who are identified as indulging in such abusive conduct and expects the police to take action against any identified perpetrators.”
It is not the first time Chelsea fans have been caught making offensive chants in recent years. Videos appeared on social media of some supporters doing the same ahead of last season’s FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham.
A group of Chelsea fans also pushed a black commuter off a Metro train in Paris in February 2015 before a Champions League tie.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1734998933labto1734998933ofdlr1734998933owedi1734998933sni@w1734998933ahsra1734998933w.wer1734998933dna1734998933