After a video surfaced of their fans singing a vile chant about the late Manchester United legend, Sir Bobby Charlton, Manchester City has issued an apology to his family.
The iconic player, who represented both Manchester United and England, passed away on Saturday, September 21st, prompting widespread mourning in the football community.
Meanwhile, criticism has been directed at City supporters following offensive chants about Charlton during their recent 2-1 victory over Brighton.
A video shared on social media captured a group of supporters clad in Manchester City-branded attire chanting ‘Bobby’s in a box’ at the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City has expressed regret to Charlton’s family and has appealed for information regarding the offensive chants, while also committing to imposing lifetime bans on any offenders.
The club released a statement, expressing, ‘Manchester City FC are extremely disappointed to have learned of reports of offensive chanting from a small number of individuals about Sir Bobby Charlton in some of the concourses of the Etihad Stadium during half time of yesterday’s Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion.’
‘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.’
‘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, and 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.’
‘Fans who see or hear abusive behavior are encouraged to text 0770 0151 894 to make our dedicated security team aware of what they have witnessed.’
Sir Bobby Charlton featured in 758 games and scored 249 goals for Manchester United over a 17-year period, and he also earned 106 caps for England, netting 49 times.
