Man Utd launch investigation into chaotic incident after 2-2 draw vs Lyon
Manchester United are investigating troubling reports that some of their supporters were tear-gassed by French police following Thursday night’s Europa League match against Lyon, the Daily Mail reports.
The incident started after the nail-biting 2-2 draw at the Groupama Stadium as some United fans were trying to leave the venue while others were working their way towards the restrooms.
Travelling fans have accused the French police of using unnecessarily aggressive tactics, especially to prevent people from using the restrooms after the game.
Eye witnesses claim tensions flew off the rails when supporters were told they would be held in the stadium for up to an hour but were denied access to the toilets while the concourse was closed.
Video footage shared on social media shows fans covering their faces, with some alleging that tear gas was used inside the ground.
The incident has been met with strong backlash from Football Supporters Europe, with executive director Ronan Evain slamming the “completely unnaceptable” response from the police.
The situation seemed to worsen after the final whistle, with supporters claiming the French police sprayed tear gas and left many in distress.
The entire trip to France has been a whirlwind for United fans.
Before the game, they were forced to collect wristbands at the Eurexpo Conference Centre, which was quite some distance from the stadium.
As if that wasn’t enough, Lyon’s Metro system reportedly shut down in the hours leading up to kick-off, forcing local authorities to scramble replacement buses to get fans to the venue.
It’s understood United are trying to gather the facts to understand exactly what happened, although reporters haven’t been able to get anything out of the French police yet.
United will be hoping to see off the fallen French giants when both sides reconvene for the tie-decider at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim’s side came close to snatching a win in France, but a couple of howlers from goalkeeper Andre Onana cost the Red Devils what would have been a morale-boosting victory.
Article written by onyekachiuwanabi .