In efforts to ease tension between both clubs and sets of supporters Liverpool and Manchester City have met and released a joint statement.
A number of epic battles between both sides has resulted in an increased rivalry between both sets of supporters.
Pep Guardiola: “This is Anfield, every time you come here lately unfortunately this is Anfield.” [BBC]
— DaveOCKOP (@DaveOCKOP) October 16, 2022
In the same game a number of shameful Hillsborough related chants were directed towards Liverpool fans. There is no place in football or anywhere in the world for these horrific chants.
Tensions have been simmering ever since the Manchester City team bus was damaged in 2018 at Anfield. Both sets of fans will accept that their behaviour needs to improve going forward and both clubs have recognised this will a joint plea to supporters. Liverpool were issued with a fine from UEFA of £17,500 after the incident.
Joint statement
Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan and Man City CEO Ferran Soriano said:
“We write to you today on behalf of both Manchester City FC and Liverpool FC, ahead of our Carabao Cup match at the Etihad Stadium later this week.
“As with any meeting between our clubs, it promises to be a fantastic spectacle of football and we are sure that you are all counting down to kick-off with much anticipation following the break in domestic football for the World Cup.
“The passion and enthusiasm that we see from our fans when we play each other – at the Etihad Stadium or Anfield – is part of what makes matches between our clubs so special, and we know you are committed to creating a stadium environment where everyone is welcomed, accepted and has a fantastic matchday experience.
“Regrettably, based on recent meetings between our clubs, we also know that a minority of fans are responsible for behaviours and actions that have no place in our game.
“We are therefore writing to ask for your full support in tackling these behaviours and to ensure that both of our clubs’ good names are preserved. You can help us by reporting any incidents via the options at the bottom of this email so they can be investigated.
“We appreciate that some fans may not be aware of the impact of their behaviours on other fans, both inside and outside the stadium, and we will continue to work with our fans on this education.
“It is however important for everyone to be aware that we are fully committed to dealing with unacceptable behaviours and will take action by issuing bans to those found to be responsible.
“We have engaged the chairs from both our respective fan groups in our discussions and have their full backing to help create the right environment for our matches.
“If we all stand together to report the behaviours and actions that cause harm – including inappropriate gestures, chanting, throwing of objects, as well as any and all forms of discrimination – then we can all concentrate on supporting our teams.
“Thank you for taking the time to read this email, and for your commitment to help eliminate unacceptable behaviours in football.”
