Another racism controversy has erupted in the Premier League (PL).
Newcastle United issued a statement on their website on Friday, saying, “We strongly condemn the racist abuse suffered by Bruno Guimarães and Joe Willock following the win over Arsenal. Our message is clear. There is no room for racism in football or in society. The club is supporting Guimarães and Willock and will work with social media platforms to hold those responsible to account.”
The incident occurred after the 11th round PL match between Newcastle and Arsenal in the 2023-24 season at St. James’ Park in Newcastle, England, in the early hours of the 5th, in which Newcastle defeated Arsenal thanks to an Anthony Gordon goal. However, the goal was controversial due to a foul and video assistant referee (VAR) decision. After the game, some Arsenal fans reportedly shouted racist messages at Newcastle aces Guimarães and Willock.
The PL is arguably the best league in the world, with world-class players. However, racism has been a recurring issue for decades. The PL’s governing body is trying to make improvements, such as running a Black Lives Matter campaign to eradicate racism and having 20 clubs wear “No Room For Racism” patches on their jerseys.
Still, the racism continues. South Korean international and Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min has been targeted several times. During a match against Crystal Palace in the 35th round of last season, a spectator was caught on camera tearing his eyes out. It was a derogatory gesture towards Asians. Tottenham worked with police authorities and investigations to identify the racist. Newcastle is also expected to work with social media platforms to identify fans who left racist messages for Guimarães and Willock.
Meanwhile, Newcastle, who remain unbeaten in the league, will now prepare for the European challenge. Newcastle will take on Dortmund 토토사이트 in the fourth leg of the 2023-24 UEFA Champions League (UCL) Group F tie at the Ziegenal Iduna Park in Westphalia, Germany, at 2:45 a.m. on Aug. 8. Group F is the ‘Group of Death’ with a very tight race for the top spot. Newcastle will look to leapfrog German Bundesliga giants Dortmund with a win.