Manchester City have condemned the alleged racist abuse aimed at Rico Lewis during Wednesday’s Champions League win over Sevilla.
The teenage defender scored a fantastic goal on his first senior start under Pep Guardiola in a 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium to close out Group G.
However, such a memorable occasion for Lewis, when he became City’s youngest-ever scorer in Europe’s elite club competition, was tarnished after he was subject to alleged racist abuse from a section of the away fans.
City condemned that abuse in an official statement released on Thursday night, confirming that two arrests had been made by Greater Manchester Police.
“Manchester City strongly condemns the racist abuse that Rico Lewis was subject to from Sevilla supporters at yesterday’s match,” the statement read.
“We understand that two arrests have been made and are continuing to work with Sevilla and GMP to investigate this matter.
“We will not tolerate discrimination of any kind at our stadium and will be offering our full support to Rico following these vile incidents.”
Sevilla also condemned the behaviour of the fans in question at the Etihad, insisting they would be swiftly removed as club members if allegations of racist abuse were proven.
“Sevilla FC strongly condemn the behaviour of two fans in the away section of Manchester City's stadium, who were identified and accused of allegedly behaving in a racist manner towards Manchester City player Rico Lewis,” said the LaLiga outfit.
“Sevilla FC are awaiting official confirmation of these facts, of which they have been made aware by Manchester City, and if these are proven, the two fans will be removed from the list of members.
“Sevilla FC would like to point out that there have never been any racist or xenophobic episodes at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán stadium and that its fans have always been committed to the fight against racism.”
