Arsenal condemn Valencia fans’ behaviour after a video appears to show them making Nazi salutes

Arsenal said they “utterly condemn” the behaviour
of a group of Valencia fans who appeared to make Nazi salutes and monkey
gestures at Thursday’s Europa League semi-final at Emirates Stadium.

A video has emerged of the latest high profile incident of
racism at domestic and international football this season.

Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out said “these
blatant racist gestures are shocking and inexcusable.”

Arsenal won the first-leg tie 3-1, with the reverse fixture
in Spain on 9 May.

There have not been any arrests for the incident, but the
Metropolitan Police said they “are aware” of the video and although
no reports have been made, the footage is being reviewed.

“We utterly condemn such behaviour,” said an
Arsenal spokesman. “It has no place in society or football. We are working
with Valencia on this and continue to encourage fans to report incidents and to
provide witness statements so effective action can be taken.”

Six Valencia fans were arrested during the game for foul and
abusive language and alcohol-related issues.

Valencia said the “isolated gestures” by
travelling fans “do not represent in any way Valencia fans”.

The Spanish side said they are working to identify those
responsible and have asked for help from other fans who were at the game, saying
they would take “the corresponding disciplinary measures”.

The club also said that although the actions were
“absolutely unjustifiable”, they would be investigating to see if
there were any “possible provocations”.

Kick it Out said: “We hope the relevant authorities
identify the perpetrators and take the strongest possible punishment.”

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