Man arrested for racially abusing Antoine Semenyo at Anfield

Police have confirmed the arrest of a 47-year-old man after Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo was subjected to alleged racial abuse during the Premier League opening match against Liverpool at Anfield on Friday.

The incident occurred in the 29th minute, prompting Semenyo to report the abuse directly to the referee, which briefly halted the game.

In a statement, Merseyside Police said the man, from Liverpool, was quickly identified and removed from Anfield Stadium following the report.

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He was later arrested on Saturday on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence and remains in custody for questioning.

The Premier League has maintained a zero-tolerance policy against racism, stressing that discrimination of any kind has no place in football. Both Bournemouth and Liverpool have expressed their support for Semenyo, condemning the incident and urging continued efforts to eradicate racism from the sport.

This arrest comes as part of the wider campaign to ensure players, officials, and fans enjoy a safe and inclusive environment inside stadiums.

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