News
Boy, 17, charged over ‘vile’ chants about Sir Bobby Charlton
City said it had banned two minors for ‘vile chanting’
A 17-year-old boy has been charged over ‘vile’ chants about the death of Sir Bobby Charlton, which were recorded at a Manchester City’s match against Brighton.
Greater Manchester Police investigated the video footage following the game after the offensive chants were heard at the Etihad Stadium following the announcement of the United legend’s death, on October 21st.
The force said the boy, who can not be named for legal reasons, has been charged with a public order offence.
He is due to appear before Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Youth Court on Monday, November 13th.
The teenager has been released on bail with conditions not to attend ‘any regulated football matches’, GMP said.
It added that a 14-year-old boy, who was voluntarily interviewed in connection with the incident, will be ‘dealt with out of court’.
It comes after a small number of fans were filmed in the grounds of the Etihad campus singing chants about the death of the former England and Manchester United star.
On Thursday Manchester City said it had banned two minors for ‘vile chanting’.
City manager Pep Guardiola addressed the chanting at a press conference on Friday, ahead of the Manchester derby. He said: “They don’t represent us. Alcohol makes bad things in people.
“[City ambassador] Mike Summerbee went to Old Trafford to sign the book [of condolence for Sir Bobby], he represents us.”
Guardiola added: “We have huge respect for Manchester United, especially for the icon of Sir Bobby Charlton. We will be part of the condolences to Man Utd and English football.”
Sir Bobby Charlton was a key member of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team and Manchester United named its South Stand after the legend. He sadly passed away aged 86 on Saturday, October 21st.