Manchester City has strongly condemned the “offensive” chants that were directed at the late Sir Bobby Charlton during their match against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The football legend, who represented England and Manchester United, passed away at the age of 86 on Saturday, prompting clubs throughout the English Football League to pay their respects in the latest round of fixtures.
Regrettably, a section of Manchester City fans engaged in derogatory chants aimed at the 1966 World Cup winner during City’s 2-1 victory over Brighton at the Etihad Stadium.
In response, as reported by BBC Sport, Manchester City has issued an official statement expressing their disappointment and their commitment to identifying and banning the individuals responsible for these offensive chants.
“The club condemns these chants in the strongest terms and apologises unreservedly to the family and friends of Sir Bobby, and to all those at Manchester United,” the statement reads.
“On this day of all days, when the stadium stood to pay tribute to our own legend in Francis Lee, Manchester City supporters should understand and appreciate as keenly as anyone the need for respect in our game.
“Our security team are studying CCTV footage of the concourse areas. We are thankful to those who have already come forward to report this matter.
“We continue to appeal for any information that can help us identify the individuals involved so that we can take the appropriate action to issue banning orders.”
In the upcoming Manchester derby of the 2023-24 Premier League season, which will be hosted by Charlton’s former club, Manchester United, City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has confirmed that his team will participate in a special pre-match tribute.
This tribute will honor Sir Bobby Charlton, a footballing legend who scored an impressive 249 goals in 758 appearances for the Red Devils.