Manchester, UK – A 17-year-old football spectator is facing charges related to offensive chants concerning the late Sir Bobby Charlton, the iconic figure of Manchester United, during a recent Manchester City match. The chants, captured on video, triggered an investigation by Greater Manchester Police, leading to legal actions against the teenager. Due to legal constraints, the young individual’s identity remains undisclosed.
The adolescent has been accused of a public order offence and is scheduled to appear before Manchester magistrates in November. While granted bail, the condition of abstaining from regulated football matches has been imposed upon him.
In connection with the same incident, a 14-year-old boy has been voluntarily interviewed by the police and will be dealt with outside of the court system.
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, expressed his strong disapproval of the “vile chanting” related to Sir Bobby Charlton’s passing during a press briefing preceding the Manchester derby. Guardiola emphasized that fans engaging in offensive chanting do not represent the club’s values. He reiterated the club’s deep respect for Manchester United and, especially, for Sir Bobby Charlton. Guardiola confirmed Manchester City’s intention to pay their respects to Manchester United and English football.
In response to the incident, Manchester City announced on Thursday that two young individuals have been banned from attending both home and away matches due to their involvement in the offensive chanting.
Sir Bobby Charlton, a pivotal figure in England’s victorious 1966 World Cup campaign, passed away at the age of 86 last Saturday, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of football.
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